The Oklahoma Department of Commerce is the primary economic development entity in the state. Our mission is to cultivate environments and relationships that foster economic growth. Our job is to bring jobs, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

The Oklahoma Department of Commerce (state government office) seeks to fill a full-time, in-office Project Manager position. The Oklahoma Department of Commerce offers a comprehensive Benefits Package, including a generous benefit allowance to offset the cost of insurance premiums for employees and their eligible dependents. For more information about the benefit allowance, Click Here. The annual salary for this position is up to $70,000 based on education and experience.

Qualified applicants must submit a resume, cover letter, and a list of reference sources.

Basic Purpose

The Economic Development, Growth & Expansion (EDGE) Division at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce targets and recruits businesses to locate in Oklahoma and assists existing companies interested in expanding within the state. Our job is to provide first-class service and project management to each client we serve, resulting in added jobs, investment, and economic prosperity within Oklahoma. The Project Manager role is critical to identifying and aligning the key drivers of the client decision-making with the programs, services, and other resources of the state and local communities. The position of Project Manager is to be the primary point of contact for prospects, consultants, and other internal and external partners.

The qualified candidate must possess enthusiasm, flexibility, and be willing to assume complex, challenging assignments. The Project Manager works independently on assigned projects, alongside industry Recruiters and other internal/external resources to collectively achieve the mission. As a conduit for information and resources, Project Managers take pride in creating effective partnerships within each community, other state agencies, businesses, and consultants. These relationships are built on integrity, professionalism, commitment to being of service, timely engagement, and a reliable conduit for information. The incumbent must be highly self-motivated, accountable, detailed, goal-oriented, organized, and deadline-driven.

Typical Functions

• Become proficient with the Economic Development (EDO) Portal and Microsoft Dynamics Customer Engagement (CE) database.
• Using these tools to track project workflow and manage its progression through the various stages: Initiation (Introduction and project information gathering), Plan (Strategy of Oklahoma offerings available to relieve pain points and/or meet key drivers of the project), Execute (on-going evaluation and regular communication), Monitor and Control (status checks and updates), Close (ensuring all requirements and pain points have been met).
• Willingness to continue to learn and grow in awareness of State/local resources and assets that benefit existing and new businesses. Having the ability to articulate those to companies, consultants, and local partners.
• The ability to maintain and respect the client's need for confidentiality of project information. Adhering to client-provided instructions and Commerce's internal non-disclosure process.
• To review detailed information provided to the State and create a response that represents the competitive strength of Oklahoma against competing states.
• As needed, plan, coordinate, and perform hosting duties for prospects in the state during site visits.
• Continued professional development and conference attendance in and out of state.
• Prepare weekly to update leadership on project pipeline and communications that may require leadership engagement.
• Maintain professionalism and can network in various settings.
• Be flexible and work to support and assist when and where, as needed.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, And Competencies

• Must be highly motivated, accountable, detailed, goal-oriented, organized, and deadline-driven.
• Skill and experience in business etiquette, information organization, report writing, and presentation are also required.
• The ability to handle and prioritize multiple projects concurrently and independently, often under time restrictions.
• Ability to work independently, with minimum supervision, displaying personal initiative and direction.
• Must have a working knowledge of general office & project management practices.
• Must have excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft software, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Must work effectively with the public and private sector partners.
• Must maintain confidentiality regarding the work of the Division.
  
  

Education And Experience

Bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in economic development, business, marketing, or related experience. At least four years of experience in project management, economic development, marketing, or sales. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Special Requirements

Applicants must possess the ability and willingness to travel for job-related purposes. They must also desire to continue in self- and professional development. Duties may occasionally require extended hours. In addition, applicants must possess the ability and willingness to perform job-related functions, which may require multitasking in a dynamic work environment.

AA/EEO