JOB DESCRIPTION

Are you ready to take on the challenge of leading one of the most significant redevelopment opportunities in the Chicago region? The Lincolnwood Town Center has been sold and is in the beginning stages of redevelopment. Lincolnwood is seeking a forward‑thinking, collaborative leader to guide this effort and shape the Village's next chapter.

Summary

Lincolnwood (population 13,463) is a diverse, dynamic community in Cook County and the gateway to the North Shore. The Village offers a strong mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and light industrial areas. Major assets include the new District 1860 mixed‑use development, a vibrant restaurant scene, the Lincolnwood Town Center mall, and seven automotive dealerships. Several major projects are underway, including a dual‑branded Marriott hotel and the Town Center redevelopment. Lincolnwood is a full‑service, professionally managed home‑rule municipality with a $68 million budget and a continued focus on infrastructure and facility improvements.

The Community Development Director leads a department of eight full‑time staff and contracted services with SAFEbuilt. The Director oversees planning, zoning, permitting, building code review, code enforcement, and building inspections, and provides staff support to the Plan Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals and the Economic Development Commission. The department's operating budget is $1.5 million. The Director is a key member of the Village's executive leadership team and reports to the Village Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the redevelopment of the 30+ acre Lincolnwood Town Center site from concept design through the construction phase.
• Guide the continued buildout of District 1860, including the Marriott hotel, a 40,000 square foot retail building, and first‑floor commercial spaces.
• Manage the full lifecycle of the Village's Comprehensive Plan update.
• Drive business attraction, retention, and expansion strategies to strengthen the local economy, reduce commercial vacancies, and support long‑term economic sustainability. Collaborate with the Economic Development Commission on policy and program development.
• Guide zoning, land use, and redevelopment initiatives while supporting the Plan Commission/ZBA and Economic Development Commission to ensure balanced, forward‑looking planning decisions.
• Promote Lincolnwood as a business‑friendly, development‑ready community through targeted economic development marketing and outreach.
• Serve as liaison to developers, businesses, and partner agencies, supporting businesses navigating Village processes, regulations, and incentives.
• Oversee zoning, building, and development code updates and enforcement, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Provide professional recommendations to elected officials and commissions, ensuring alignment with Village policies, procedures, and strategic initiatives.
• Represent the Village with the Chamber of Commerce and regional organizations, building strong relationships with community stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in urban planning, architecture, public administration, or related field required; master's degree preferred.
• AICP certification desired. CEcD certification a plus.
• Minimum seven years of progressively responsible planning and development experience.
• Strong knowledge of community and economic development programs, Illinois land‑use regulations, and developer agreements.

Compensation and Benefits

This is a full‑time, exempt position with a salary range of $144,357 to $202,100 annually with a starting salary determined based on qualifications and experience. The Village of Lincolnwood provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes Blue Cross PPO medical coverage, Delta Dental plans, life and vision insurance, participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), paid sick leave, four weeks of vacation for Department Directors, holidays and educational and vehicle stipends. A general overview of benefits is available in the Summary of Benefits document on the Village's website.

Application Process

Apply online at www.lincolnwoodil.org/employment until March 30, 2026. First review of applications will begin on March 23, 2026. Applicants should submit a resume, cover letter, and five professional references. The Village of Lincolnwood is an equal opportunity employer.