The Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is seeking a President & Chief Executive Officer to serve as the organization’s chief strategist, spokesperson, and champion for economic growth across Manatee County and the greater Bradenton Area. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the President & CEO will lead a high-visibility, investor-driven organization focused on business recruitment, retention, and expansion; talent and workforce alignment; and long-term regional competitiveness. The EDC operates at the intersection of business, government, and community, requiring a leader who can align diverse stakeholders and translate strategy into measurable economic impact.
The President & CEO is the organization’s primary external representative and internal culture leader—responsible for strengthening trust, transparency, and collaboration while advancing a clear, market-responsive economic development strategy.
 

Key Leadership Priorities

• Set and execute a clear vision for economic growth aligned with the EDC’s strategic priorities and investor expectations
• Lead business attraction, retention, and expansion efforts that generate high-wage jobs and capital investment
• Serve as the primary liaison to investors, board members, elected officials, and cross-sector partners
• Convene and collaborate with regional organizations including  workforce, tourism, chamber, and airport partners
• Oversee organizational operations, including budgeting, staffing, fundraising, and program delivery
• Build and lead a high-performing, accountable team grounded in transparency and collaboration
• Act as a visible, credible spokesperson for the Bradenton Area EDC at the local, state, and national levels

Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will bring:

• Senior leadership experience in economic development, public-private partnerships, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated success in business attraction, retention, and expansion initiatives
• Strong understanding of workforce development, infrastructure, land use, and regional economic drivers
• Proven ability to work effectively with a Board of Directors and diverse stakeholder groups
• Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and public-facing leadership skills
• A leadership style that values transparency and disciplined execution
• A bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree is preferred.  

To Apply

This is a rare opportunity to lead a respected economic development organization at a pivotal moment—shaping the next chapter of growth, collaboration, and competitiveness for the Bradenton Area. The Bradenton Area EDC has engaged Winner Partners, an executive search firm specializing in senior leadership placements for organizations driving economic and community impact.

Submit a résumé and letter of interest to: BradentonEDC@winnerpartners.net