Executive Director - Omaha Inland Port Authority, NE

Company: National Community Development Association (NCDA)
Location: Omaha
Posted on: April 6, 2025

Job Description:

The Omaha Inland Port Authority (OIPA), a political subdivision of the State of Nebraska, is seeking a strategic, results-driven leader to serve as its first Executive Director. This newly created position presents a rare opportunity to establish and lead a transformative economic development initiative that will leverage Omaha's strategic location to attract industry, expand infrastructure, and create lasting economic benefits for the North Omaha community that has been historically underserved.As a start-up organization, OIPA requires a leader who can build credibility, foster strong partnerships with public officials, industry stakeholders and community leaders in order to drive sustainable growth. The Executive Director will report to a nine-member board appointed by the Mayor of Omaha and approved by the Omaha City Council. The Director will be responsible for implementing the Port Authority's long-term vision, ensuring that the development of shovel-ready industrial sites, multimodal logistics, and business attraction strategies align with both local and regional economic goals.Additionally, the Executive Director will be responsible for oversight of daily operations, including the hiring of staff and maintaining a positive work environment conducive to professional development for all employees. The Director will also be responsible for establishing internal procedures and policies to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations. This is a highly visible and complex role that requires an individual with strong economic development expertise, business acumen, and the ability to navigate public-private partnerships.The Executive Director must be an adept communicator, capable of balancing competing interests while moving projects forward with transparency and accountability. Success in this role will not only shape the future of industrial development in Omaha but also strengthen the city's position as a national leader in trade, logistics, and advanced manufacturing.Omaha is a thriving Midwestern city known for its strong economy, high quality of life, and welcoming community. With a metropolitan population exceeding 900,000, Omaha is Nebraska's largest city and serves as a key economic hub for the region. Its diverse economy is anchored by Fortune 500 companies-including Berkshire Hathaway, Union Pacific Railroad, Peter Kiewit Sons' Inc., and Mutual of Omaha-as well as a strong presence in logistics, finance, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing.QualificationsThe successful candidate will have a strong educational and professional background relevant to economic development, infrastructure planning, and business attraction. A bachelor's degree in public administration, business administration, economic development, engineering, planning, or a related field is required, with a master's degree preferred. Candidates should have at least seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, business administration, government relations, or real estate development, with a demonstrated track record in managing large-scale projects and fostering stakeholder engagement.The ideal candidate will have a strong background in economic development, infrastructure planning, and relationship building. They should be a results-driven leader with experience in public-private partnerships, industrial site development, and business attraction strategies.Compensation and BenefitsThe Omaha Inland Port Authority offers a highly competitive executive compensation package, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The salary range for the Executive Director position is $190,000 to $250,000 with the expected hiring range as $190,000 to $220,000 plus a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Group health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage for the employee and eligible family members.
• Participation in a defined benefit pension program.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Employer contributions to a retirement savings plan.
• Relocation assistance for the selected candidate if applicable.
• Additional benefits may include wellness incentives, professional development support, and other executive-level perks.How to ApplyInterested candidates will apply online at with a cover letter, resume, and contact information for at least five (5) professional references by April 25th. For further information contact MGT Vice President of Human Capital Solutions, Charlene Stevens (320)-262-0303 or MGT Director of Human Capital Solutions, Mary Jacobs (847)-380-3240 ext. 177.THE OMAHA INLAND PORT AUTHORITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
  #J-18808-Ljbffr

Keywords: National Community Development Association (NCDA), Bellevue , Executive Director - Omaha Inland Port Authority, NE, Executive , Omaha, Nebraska