Executive Director
JOB TITLE: Executive Director
Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development (SRPED)
The Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development (SRPED) is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt non-profit organization dedicated to serving as a catalyst for economic and community development throughout Fulton County, Illinois. Our mission is to create community partnerships, business opportunities, and implement programs and projects that foster growth and development.
Located in west-central Illinois, Fulton County enjoys strong collaboration among local government, education, and business. The region benefits from engaged leadership, a skilled workforce, and a shared commitment to progress.
The Partnership is seeking an experienced Executive Director who is passionate about our mission and capable of leading with excellence. The successful candidate will oversee organizational operations, guide economic development initiatives, and serve as a visible community leader and relationship builder. This position reports to—and works closely with—the SRPED Board of Directors.
Position Overview
The Executive Director of Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development advances the economic vitality of Canton and Fulton County by attracting new businesses, supporting existing employers, and coordinating long-term development strategies.
The role includes leadership of economic development projects; budgeting and financial oversight; planning; grant development; public relations; and partnership building across business, government, and community sectors.
Key Responsibilities
Economic & Community Development
- Lead short- and long-range economic development strategies.
- Oversee business retention, expansion, and recruitment initiatives.
- Assist companies with relocation, expansion, permitting, or site selection needs.
- Represent SRPED in negotiations, development discussions, and regional partnerships.
- Carry out additional responsibilities as needed to support the organization as assigned.
- Serve as the primary liaison to local employers, educators, investors, and economic development partners.
- Build and maintain relationships with entrepreneurs, business owners, elected officials, and community leaders.
- Represent SRPED at local, regional, and state-level meetings and events.
- Prepare or supervise grant applications for federal, state, and private funding.
- Manage reporting requirements and cultivate funding partnerships.
- Oversee Canton Main Street and related programs.
- Serve as a visible spokesperson and advocate for economic development efforts.
- Promote SRPED’s mission, programs, and successes to private investors, government agencies, and the public.
- Support investor relations, fundraising, and marketing initiatives.
- Work with the Board of Directors to set strategic direction and monitor performance.
- Ensure alignment across staff, board, and partner organizations.
- Manage daily operations and meet program deliverables.
- Recruit, supervise, evaluate, and develop staff and volunteers.
- Oversee budgeting, financial reporting, and P&L responsibilities in accordance with Board policy and bylaws.
- Understanding of economic development principles and practices
- Strategic thinker with entrepreneurial mindset
- Organized, self-motivated, and collaborative
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to manage projects and build partnerships
- Creative problem solver who can inspire and motivate others
- Bachelor’s degree required (preferred fields include Economic Development, Business, Public Administration, Planning, or related disciplines)
- Experience in economic/community development, business, local government, or a related field
- Supervisory and leadership experience required
- Experience in business recruitment, grants, incentives, municipal processes, and accounting/operations strongly preferred
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel within region
- Ability to attend evening or weekend meetings as necessary
- Time split between office-based work, business visits, partner meetings, and conferences
- Full-time salaried, exempt position,
- Benefits include insurance & phone stipend, and PTO
- Residency in Fulton County strongly preferred
SRPED is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.
How to Apply
Send a cover letter and resume to:
Holly Henline, Board President — hhenline@grahamhospital.org
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
