Location: Johnstown,PA, USA
Jorgenson Pace has been retained to conduct this executive search.
Johnstown Area Regional Industries (JARI) has been a cornerstone of economic development in Southwestern Pennsylvania since its founding in 1974. Established in response to the decline of the steel and coal industries, JARI's mission is to diversify the regional economy by attracting new businesses, supporting small enterprises, and providing workforce development to meet evolving economic demands.
JARI delivers a comprehensive range of services, including workforce development, government contracting assistance, commercial lending, and real estate development. These programs are designed to foster business growth, create jobs, and strengthen the local economy. Serving the Greater Johnstown area, including Cambria and Somerset Counties, JARI also extends its reach through micro-lending and other business assistance programs in Bedford, Blair, Fulton, Huntingdon, and Indiana Counties.
For five decades, JARI has been instrumental in driving economic progress, recruiting international companies, supporting startups, and facilitating collaboration among local businesses and stakeholders. In 2024, JARI celebrated its 50th anniversary, reflecting its ongoing commitment to fostering economic growth and community development. The organization continues to play a critical role in connecting businesses with the resources and expertise they need to succeed.
Job Reporting Relationships
Supervised by: Board of Directors
Supervises: Executive Assistant; Chief Financial Officer; Vice President for Economic Development; Director of Workforce Development; Program Manager of APEX Accelerator
Basic Qualifications
Education/Training:
Bachelor's degree in a related field; MBA or related master's degree preferred
Thorough knowledge of economic development.
Skills:
Demonstrated proficiency in business planning and executive management
Exceptional interpersonal relations, communication, and leadership skills
Excellent public speaking abilities
Ability to manage multiple tasks
Proficient analytical and PC skills
Visual and auditory skills
Valid driver's license
Experience:
Minimum of ten (10) years of related experience
General Responsibilities
Responsible for the business planning and control of the organization's resources toward established objectives in a manner consistent with the philosophy of the Board of Directors and various regulatory requirements. Communicates and participates with the Board on all decisions affecting the organization that must be made at the Board level; implements directives of the Board; provides direction to key management personnel; provides and presents appropriate management reports.
Essential Duties
· Plan, control, and manage the organization's resources toward established Board objectives by performing various executive management duties, including:
o Planning and controlling policies and practices of the organization and its resources to ensure compliance with Board policies and regulatory requirements;
o Communicating and participating with the Board regarding all decisions affecting the organization that must be made at the Board level, including:
o Organizing and participating in fundraising activities; securing funding contracts.
o Coordinating and supervising economic development programs.
· Develop, implement, and achieve annual goals and objectives as established in the organization's annual operating plan including:
o Allocating division resources toward tasks required to achieve goals and objectives.
o Directing, through appropriate management and supervisory personnel, day-to-day activities in support of divisional objectives.
o Measuring effectiveness and performance of systems and personnel.
o Developing resources to improve efficiency and productivity.
o Assisting in the development of the annual budget and adhering to budget parameters.
· Organize division management to achieve objectives.
· Abide by current laws and organizational policies and procedures designed to promote an environment free of sexual harassment and other forms of illegal discriminatory behavior in the workplace.
· Ensure adherence to risk management policies, regulatory compliance, and internal operational standards.
· Directly supervise assigned management and support personnel, including:
o Selecting and discharging personnel as appropriate.
o Providing orientation and training for new hires.
o Reviewing employee performance on a regular basis.
· Communicate and interface with management personnel throughout the organization to integrate objectives and activities.
· Provide periodic reports to the Board of Directors and other stakeholders as required.
· Assume responsibility for special projects as assigned by the Board of Directors.
Ancillary Duties
Perform tasks supportive in nature to the essential functions of the job, which may be altered or redesigned depending upon individual circumstances.
Additional Useful Experience
· Global and Regional Experience: Possesses experience with international markets and can foster partnerships that expand JARI's reach to international businesses, especially those interested in entering the U.S. market through Pennsylvania.
· Technologically Aware: Has awareness of technology's impact on the workforce and the business community, as this is increasingly relevant to regional economic development and workforce planning.
· Fundraising and Grant Experience: Proven ability to secure funding through grants and direct appeals to government bodies at the local, state, and federal levels.
Desired Personality Traits and Characteristics
· Community-Oriented Leader: Demonstrates a deep commitment to community involvement, not just as a manager but as an active participant in local events, community issues, and business advocacy.
· Confidence with Humility: Exhibits confidence without arrogance; is approachable and does not present themselves as superior to others, especially in Johnstown's close-knit community.
· Hands-On and Proactive: Has a “doer” attitude with a strong sense of urgency, comfortable taking direct action, rolling up his/her sleeves and getting hands dirty as needed to achieve organizational goals, while also being a strategic thinker and project manager.
· Open-Minded and Adaptable: Maintains an open-minded approach, listens actively, and is willing to entertain new ideas while showing respect for JARI's current direction and successes.
· Apolitical yet Politically Savvy: Stays neutral in political matters but understands the importance of working effectively with government and community stakeholders.
· Executive presence: Polished; self-confident; has political savvy necessary to maneuver through complex situations effectively and quietly.
Leadership Style
· Collaborative and Team-Oriented: Works well with diverse groups, including government officials, business leaders, and community members; a unifier who takes time to build relationships; fosters collaboration and communication across teams and departments.
· Transparent and Accountable: Ensures transparency in financial and operational matters, keeping the Board and stakeholders informed of progress, especially in areas like loan collection, financial health, and grant management. Drives for results through clear benchmarking and metrics tracking.
· High Visibility: Highly visible to staff, members, and business leaders; active in the region and community.
· Balanced Approach to Change: Recognizes the value of continuity within JARI's established successful practices while bringing a fresh perspective to adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities in economic development.