Economic Development Officer, Investment Attraction

Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism is seeking a driven and strategic professional to join our team as an Economic Development Officer, Investment Attraction.

This position is responsible for fostering a resilient economy and supports a range of initiatives aimed at attracting new investment, driving economic growth and strengthening the region’s economic competitiveness.

While this position supports a range of investment attraction priorities, the current focus of the role will be advancing industrial development and economic diversification opportunities. This includes supporting large-scale industrial project investment opportunities, improving the region’s investment readiness through land and infrastructure competitiveness initiatives, generating leads in targeted sectors, and working with investors and partners to help move opportunities forward.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys strategy, relationship-building, and helping shape long-term transformational economic opportunities for the region.

The EDO actively engages with prospective investors, developers, commercial businesses, industrial companies, and all levels of government, offering in-depth insights into the region’s advantages, facilitating local connections, and guiding investors throughout the site selection process to ensure a welcoming and efficient environment for investment.

Note:

This is a full-time 1-year temporary position with the expectation of continuation.

Key Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for local, national, and international investors seeking industrial investment opportunities in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo.

Enhance the region’s investment readiness for the target sectors.

Provide guidance and support to investors throughout the investment process, ensuring they have the information and resources needed to make informed decisions.

Conduct research and utilize various channels, including online research, cold calling, and networking, to generate high-quality leads in targeted industrial sectors.

Respond promptly and professionally to inquiries from new investment leads, regional interest groups, industrial companies, site selectors, government contacts, and other relevant parties.

Develop customized proposals, presentations, and promotional materials (e.g., pitches, community brochures) to attract potential investors and showcase the region’s advantages.

Prepare and lead presentations for investors, and organize and facilitate familiarization tours for prospective investors, involving key community partners as needed.

Establish and nurture relationships with local collaborators including, but not limited to municipal government departments, industrial businesses, Keyano College, the Northeast Alberta Aboriginal Business Association, Indigenous groups, real estate professionals, landowners, and utility companies to streamline the investment process and investment initiatives within the region.

Foster partnerships with external partners such as Invest Alberta, Invest in Canada, Alberta Innovates, Government of Alberta, Global Affairs Canada and Canada Trade Commissioners Service for lead generation and for collaborative approaches to investment attraction.

Project manage, plan, organize, and execute studies and events related to the Industrial Investment Program.

Manage event logistics for industry conferences, including the preparation of promotional materials, social media content, booth logistics, cold calling, and booking meetings.

Stay informed on industry trends, provincial and federal investment targets and initiatives and current events.

Understand and stay informed on local market data, including demographics, workforce statistics, local industries, industrial production, real estate trends, and relevant regional news, to provide accurate and up-to-date insights to prospective investors.

Maintain a detailed understanding of municipal regulations, processes, and incentives, and serve as a resource for businesses seeking to navigate the local regulatory landscape.

Monitor and report on progress of investment leads and projects, tracking outcomes and contributing to strategic reporting efforts to FMWBEDT leadership as required.

Perform other related duties as required.

Skills & Qualifications

Strong professional presence with the ability to represent FMWBEDT and the region with integrity, credibility, and discretion.

Ability to research, understand, and apply industry knowledge to engage in meaningful discussions on the region’s target sectors.

Takes initiative and resourcefulness to recognize and create opportunities, and act swiftly to realize them.

Strategic thinker with strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects and deliverables.

Skilled in handling politically sensitive and confidential information, exercising sound judgement and discretion in all matters.

Ability to pivot quickly, adjust plans, and respond effectively to last‑minute requests or unexpected changes in priorities.

Exceptional liaison skills with the ability to maintain effective communication and strategic relationships with a diverse range of collaborators, including but not limited to elected officials, senior leaders, industry, investors, all levels of government, rural and Indigenous interest groups, and the general public.

Strong networking and communication skills, both verbal and written.

Commitment to delivering service excellence, embracing diversity, and fostering an inclusive environment.

Strong organizational, planning, and administrative acumen to ensure smooth execution of tasks and initiatives.

Willing and able to travel occasionally.

Education & Experience

Degree in related field such as Economic Development, Business Administration, Commerce, or Marketing

Minimum five (5) years of related experience in economic development or comparable environment.

Previous experience working in government, marketing, public relations, related industry may be considered.

Previous experience managing projects is an asset.

Formal coursework specific to Economic Development is an asset.

Previous experience working with indigenous organizations and stakeholders is preferred.

Working conditions

In addition to regular office hours, the incumbent will be expected to occasionally work outside standard hours to attend meetings, events, and facilitate program initiatives.

There are instances of extended hours with limited breaks, particularly when hosting investors or during travel.

The role requires a professional, respectful, and collaborative approach.

This position operates in a fast‑paced office environment with frequent interruptions.

The role may require occasional travel both within and outside the region, with the use of a personal or company vehicle for business‑related travel.

Valid Class 5 Operators Licence or equivalent is required with the ability to provide a clean abstract.

A valid passport (or ability to obtain or renew) and the ability to travel is mandatory.

Why Work With Us At Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism, your work directly contributes to shaping the future of the region’s economy and investment landscape.

You will join a collaborative and purpose‑driven team that values innovation, professionalism, and community impact. This position offers the opportunity to lead meaningful projects, engage with industry leaders and government partners, and play a visible role in advancing economic growth and long‑term regional competitiveness.

If you are motivated by building connections, driving investment opportunities, and contributing to the sustainable growth of the region, this is a unique and rewarding opportunity to make a lasting impact.

How to Apply Please submit your cover letter and resume through Indeed or directly by email to invest@fmwb.ca. To ensure a fair and consistent hiring process, we kindly ask that all applications be submitted electronically.

We sincerely thank all applicants for their interest in the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism organization. While we appreciate the time and effort taken to apply, only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted at this stage.

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