Job Opportunities

De Smet Development Corporation

Full Time

Contact: Jamie Lancaster
Phone: 6058549011
Email: jamie@desmetsouthdakota.org

View Online: http://desmetsd.com

Job Title: Executive Director
Organization: De Smet Development Corporation
Reports To: Board of Directors
Location: De Smet, South Dakota
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt
Salary Range: Depending on Qualifications

 

Job Summary

The De Smet Development Corporation (DDC), a 501(c)(6) organization, is seeking an Executive Director to lead and manage the organization's efforts to support and promote sustainable economic growth in De Smet, South Dakota. The Executive Director will be responsible for advancing the community’s economic vitality by attracting new businesses, supporting local entrepreneurs, promoting workforce development, and enhancing quality of life. The ideal candidate is a motivated leader who is passionate about rural development and skilled at building partnerships across public and private sectors.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement long-term strategies to drive business and community growth in alignment with the DDC’s mission.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate for the De Smet Development Corporation and its initiatives.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for business prospects and provide guidance on local resources, incentives, and development processes.

• Work closely with existing businesses to support retention, expansion, and succession planning efforts.
• Collaborate with local and regional stakeholders to support workforce development initiatives and training programs.
• Promote initiatives that enhance housing availability, infrastructure, and quality-of-life improvements.

• Foster strong relationships with local government officials, the school district, regional economic development organizations, state agencies, and community stakeholders.
• Engage with residents, volunteers, and business leaders to build a shared vision for De Smet’s future.
• Coordinate and participate in public meetings, community forums, and civic events.

• Identify and pursue grant opportunities to fund projects related to housing, infrastructure, workforce, and downtown revitalization.

• Promote De Smet as a place to live, work, and invest through marketing, public relations, and online platforms.
• Maintain the DDC’s website and social media presence to reflect community successes and opportunities.

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the DDC, including budgeting, and reporting.
• Support the Board of Directors by preparing agendas, reports, and strategic recommendations.

 

Qualifications

• Degree in a relevant field of study or equivalent years of experience.
• Experience in management and/or economic development and nonprofit leadership.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and project management skills.
• Knowledge of rural economic development tools, grant writing, and state/local government operations.
• Experience working with boards of directors and managing budgets.
• Passion for small-town community development and familiarity with South Dakota’s economic landscape is highly desirable.

 

Work Environment

• Office located in De Smet, SD, with local and regional travel.
• Some evening and weekend work is expected.

 

About De Smet South Dakota

De Smet, South Dakota, known as the “Little Town on the Prairie,” is a historic and vibrant rural community located in Kingsbury County. With a population of approximately 1,100 residents, De Smet offers a unique blend of small-town charm, rich cultural heritage, and forward-thinking development. As the childhood home of Author Laura Ingalls Wilder, De Smet attracts visitors from around the world, making tourism a key part of the local economy alongside agriculture, small business, and manufacturing.

The community is proud of its excellent K-12 school system, modern healthcare facilities, and a variety of civic and recreational amenities that support a high quality of life. De Smet has a strong tradition of community engagement, a competitive housing market, and active local leadership that supports economic growth and innovation. With its welcoming atmosphere and convenient location, De Smet is poised for continued development and is an ideal place to live, work, and invest.

 

About De Smet Development Corporation

                Established in 1966, the DDC has a long history of fostering economic growth, supporting local businesses, and enhancing the overall quality of life in De Smet, South Dakota. Guided by a volunteer Board of Directors and supported by strong community partnerships, the DDC works to attract new investment, promote entrepreneurship, and implement strategic initiatives that support long-term community development ensuring that De Smet remains a thriving, welcoming place to live, work, and play.

 

To Apply

Submit a resume and cover letter to Jamie Lancaster.

jamie@desmetsouthdakota.org

PO Box 42

De Smet, SD 57231

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

 

The De Smet Development Corporation is an equal opportunity employer.