Hiring: Business Development Liaison

Position Description:  Downtown Business Liaison 

Position Summary

Middle Michigan Development Corporation (MMDC) is seeking a passionate, community-minded professional to serve as our Downtown Business Liaison. This grant-funded position, active through December 2026, will play a key role in strengthening downtown business districts across Clare, Isabella, and Osceola counties. The ideal candidate will be energized by relationship-building, supporting small businesses, and collaborating with local stakeholders to foster vibrant, economically resilient downtowns.

Key Responsibilities

• Business Outreach & Support
  
  
• Serve as a primary point of contact for downtown and DDA district business owners across the region.
  
  
• Assist businesses with navigating available local, state, and federal resources (grants, technical assistance, workforce connections, etc.).
  
  
• Identify business needs and proactively provide referrals to appropriate support partners.
  
  
• Downtown Engagement & Development
  
  
• Collaborate with local Downtown Development Authorities (DDAs), chambers, municipal officials and other partners as appropriate to identify challenges and opportunities in downtown corridors.
  
  
• Facilitate conversations and initiatives that support business retention, recruitment, and revitalization.
  
  
• Coordinate and promote programs that drive foot traffic and increase business visibility including monthly business mixers in coordination with chambers, as appropriate.
  
  
• Marketing & Communications
  
  
• Assist with the promotion of downtown events, business spotlights, and economic development successes through MMDC’s communication channels.
  
  
• Support the creation of promotional materials and campaigns aimed at encouraging local shopping and investment.
  
  
• Data Collection & Reporting
  
  
• Maintain records of business visits, technical assistance provided, and other support activities.
  
  
• Track economic indicators and provide regular reports to MMDC and funding partners.
  
  
• Support evaluation efforts to measure the impact of downtown development initiatives.
  
  
• Program Development
  
  
• Contribute to the planning and implementation of new downtown-focused programs, grant applications, and partnerships that align with MMDC’s mission

• Other duties as assigned
  
  

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, community development, urban planning, marketing, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
  
  
• Prior experience working with small businesses, economic development, or local government is strongly preferred.
  
  
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to build trust and rapport with a wide variety of stakeholders.
  
  
• Organized, self-directed, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  
  
• Familiarity with the region’s communities and business climate is a plus.
  
  
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and be willing to travel regularly throughout the tri-county area.
  
  

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience.
  
  
• This is a grant-funded position through December 2026, with potential for continuation pending future funding.
  
  
• Benefits include mileage reimbursement, paid holidays, and access to professional development opportunities.
  
  

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position to:

Kati Mora, President and CEO
Middle Michigan Development Corporation
Email:  

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

MMDC is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse team and strongly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences.

This position made possible through the Trusted Connector Grant Program facilitated by the MEDC.