COLUMBUS – Polk County is currently advertising for a new position, called a business development director, instead of the former position of economic development director.

The county reframed the economic development director position after not renewing former economic development director Robert Williamson’s contract last December.

The economic development director position has been filled on an interim basis by Jim Edwards.

The county is advertising for a business development director that will be a full-time county position. The former economic development director worked for many years  on a contract basis.

“This position will develop and implement Polk County’s Business Development Plan consistent with the county’s vision, which is to balance the preservation of the rural heritage and natural environment with the economic conditions necessary for a desirable and sustainable quality of life for the residents of Polk County,” states the county’s advertisement for the position. “Business development focus is on small business and equine related business opportunities. Position reports directly to county manager, and will be responsible for administering and/or facilitating ETDC (economic and tourism development commission) and other committee meetings. Under direction of the county manager, the business development director will present business development strategic plans, annual action plans with targeted outcomes, and quarterly updates to various groups and boards.”

The county is looking for someone with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in business development, city planning, public administration or related field and three years of experience or experience in business or economic development for rural communities.

The full advertisement can be found on the county’s website at polknc.org.