Director of Economic Development
Classification:
Full-Time Permanent (35hrs/week)
Salary:
$85,770 - $105,713; Dependent upon experience and qualifications
The Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s is seeking a strategic, collaborative and business-minded professional to join our team as Director of Economic Development.
Reporting directly to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Director will provide leadership in advancing sustainable economic development and positioning St. Mary’s for long-term economic and community resilience.
This is an opportunity to play a significant role in shaping the Municipality’s economic future. The successful candidate will lead development and implementation of an Economic Development Plan, build strong relationships with the local business community, support new business and development opportunities, and work collaboratively with municipal planning and development services.
The Director will also lead the Municipality’s involvement in major external development projects, including identifying community priorities, negotiating Community Benefits Agreements, working with project proponents and representing the Municipality on Community Liaison Committees.
Who We’re Looking For
The ideal candidate will bring strong economic and business acumen, strategic thinking and excellent relationship-building skills. You should be comfortable working with businesses, developers, community organizations, residents, government partners, Council and municipal colleagues.
Candidates should have a combination of relevant post-secondary education and progressively responsible experience, with approximately five years of experience in economic or business development, strategic development or a related field. Experience with municipal government, major development projects, negotiations, Community Benefits Agreements or project management would be considered an asset.
This position requires sound judgement, initiative and the ability to manage complex priorities in a small municipal environment. Some evening meetings and occasional travel are required.
Why St. Mary’s?
St. Mary’s offers a rare combination of meaningful professional opportunity and exceptional quality of life.
Located on Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore, St. Mary’s is a beautiful rural municipality where the St. Mary’s River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Residents enjoy access to rivers, beaches, forests, trails and outdoor recreation, together with the welcoming, connected atmosphere of a close-knit community.
This is also a pivotal time for the Municipality. Major proposed wind and natural resource projects, housing and business opportunities, climate initiatives and community investment are creating real opportunities to help shape the future of the region. As Director of Economic Development, your work will have visible impact—you will help influence significant projects, build relationships with local businesses and community partners, and contribute to the long-term prosperity of St. Mary’s.
We offer a supportive and inclusive team environment, a 35-hour work week, generous vacation and paid holidays, strong benefits package, annual performance-based salary increases, and time in lieu for eligible evening work.
For more information, please see the position description.
Apply
Please submit your resume, cover letter and references to employment@saint-marys.ca by 8:00 a.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026, or until the position is filled.
Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.
The Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a work environment that supports, inspires and respects all individuals.