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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. Working across multiple focus areas including industrial development and commercial and retail growth. Reporting to the Director of Investment Attraction, the Economic Development Officer, Investment Attraction plays a key role in advancing investment attraction priorities in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo.

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 productive environment for investment.

Additionally, the EDO works closely with local collaborators to ensure that initiatives align with the strategic goals of Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism and the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. All of this work is executed with the intent to broaden the municipal tax revenues, create new employment opportunities, facilitate net in-migration, and enhance the quality of life for residents.

Please 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 by identifying development ready land and assessing infrastructure needs.
- 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.
- Solid 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.
- An established local network of business, municipal, or public relations would be an asset.

Working conditions

- The role requires a professional, respectful, and collaborative approach.
- This position operates in a fast-paced office environment with frequent interruptions.
- A high level of discretion is required due to the sensitive and confidential nature of the work.
- The physical demands are consistent with standard office work, requiring prolonged periods of sitting and regular use of a computer keyboard, monitor, and other office equipment.
- Valid Class 5 Operators Licence or equivalent with the ability to provide a clean abstract.
- A valid passport (or ability to obtain or renew) and the ability to travel is mandatory.
- The position may require work outside standard business hours to attend meetings, events, or support program delivery, including occasional extended hours.

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. In this role, you will help attract new industrial, commercial, and retail investment to the region by building strong relationships, supporting strategic initiatives, and showcasing the unique advantages of Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo to investors and collaborators at the local, national, and international levels.

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 [email protected]. 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.

Pay: From $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- RRSP match

Work Location: In person

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📌 Economic Development Officer, Investment Attraction (Fort McMurray)
🏢 Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism
📍 Fort McMurray