Building Omaha’s Future
About the Omaha Inland Port Authority
Established in 2024, the Omaha Inland Port Authority drives regional economic growth by strategically developing infrastructure, fostering partnerships, and enhancing logistical capabilities for a prosperous future.
Investing in Omaha’s Future
Ongoing Projects
The Omaha Inland Port Authority is dedicated to fostering sustainable economic growth through strategic development projects. We are committed to creating infrastructure and opportunities that will enhance the region’s connectivity, attract investment, and generate long-term prosperity. Our upcoming projects reflect our commitment to innovation and progress, positioning Omaha as a key player in the national and global marketplace.
OMAHA INLAND PORT AUTHORITY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Omaha Inland Port Authority (OIPA), a political subdivision of the State of Nebraska, is seeking a strategic, results-driven leader to serve as its first Executive Director. This newly created position presents a rare opportunity to establish and lead a transformative economic development initiative that will leverage Omaha’s strategic location to attract industry, expand infrastructure, and create lasting economic benefits for the North Omaha community that has been historically underserved.
As a start-up organization, OIPA requires a leader who can build credibility, foster strong partnerships with public officials, industry stakeholders and community leaders in order to drive sustainable growth. The Executive Director will be responsible for implementing the Port Authority’s long-term vision, ensuring that the development of shovel-ready industrial sites, multimodal logistics, and business attraction strategies align with both local and regional economic goals. This role demands a proactive and innovative leader who can effectively engage diverse stakeholders—including city leadership, businesses, developers, and residents—while ensuring that development efforts support the broader community without displacement.
This is a highly visible and complex role that requires an individual with strong economic development expertise, business acumen, and the ability to navigate public-private partnerships. The Executive Director must be an adept communicator, capable of balancing competing interests while moving projects forward with transparency and accountability. Success in this role will not only shape the future of industrial development in Omaha but also strengthen the city’s position as a national leader in trade, logistics, and advanced manufacturing.
THE OPPORTUNITY
The Omaha Inland Port Authority (OIPA), a political subdivision of the State of Nebraska, is seeking a strategic, results-driven leader to serve as its first Executive Director. This newly created position presents a rare opportunity to establish and lead a transformative economic development initiative that will leverage Omaha’s strategic location to attract industry, expand infrastructure, and create lasting economic benefits for the North Omaha community that has been historically underserved.
As a start-up organization, OIPA requires a leader who can build credibility, foster strong partnerships with public officials, industry stakeholders and community leaders in order to drive sustainable growth. The Executive Director will be responsible for implementing the Port Authority’s long-term vision, ensuring that the development of shovel-ready industrial sites, multimodal logistics, and business attraction strategies align with both local and regional economic goals. This role demands a proactive and innovative leader who can effectively engage diverse stakeholders—including city leadership, businesses, developers, and residents—while ensuring that development efforts support the broader community without displacement.
This is a highly visible and complex role that requires an individual with strong economic development expertise, business acumen, and the ability to navigate public-private partnerships. The Executive Director must be an adept communicator, capable of balancing competing interests while moving projects forward with transparency and accountability. Success in this role will not only shape the future of industrial development in Omaha but also strengthen the city’s position as a national leader in trade, logistics, and advanced manufacturing.
ABOUT OMAHA
Omaha is a thriving Midwestern city known for its strong economy, high quality of life, and low overall crime rate. With a metropolitan population exceeding 1,000,000 according to the US Census, Omaha is Nebraska’s largest city and serves as a key economic hub for the region. Its diverse economy is anchored by Fortune 500 companies—including Berkshire Hathaway, Union Pacific Railroad, Peter Kiewit Sons’ Inc., and Mutual of Omaha—as well as a strong presence in logistics, finance, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing.
The city has experienced significant investment in its infrastructure and business districts, with more than $2 billion in development projects enhancing the downtown and riverfront areas. The revitalized Riverfront features the Gene Leahy Mall, Heartland of America Park, and Lewis and Clark Landing—offering vibrant public spaces, entertainment venues, and a seamless connection to Omaha’s historic Old Market District. North Downtown (NoDo) has also emerged as a hub for culture, sports, and innovation, home to TD Ameritrade Park and the CHI Health Center Omaha, a premier convention and events venue.
Beyond its economic strengths, Omaha offers an exceptional quality of life. Residents benefit from nationally ranked schools, toptier universities, and an affordable cost of living—nearly 7% below the national average. The city’s 125 miles of trails, expansive park system, and world-class attractions—including the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Lauritzen Gardens, and the Joslyn Art Museum—provide ample opportunities for recreation and cultural enrichment. A strong sense of community, short commute times, and ongoing investments in infrastructure and public amenities make Omaha an
attractive destination for professionals and families alike.
OMAHA INLAND PORT AUTHORITY
OIPA was established under the Nebraska Municipal Inland Port Authority Act of 2021 to support large-scale industrial development, multimodal logistics, and regional economic growth. The Inland Port District is strategically positioned within Omaha’s corporate limits, offering direct access to key transportation infrastructure—including a navigable waterway, major rail line, interstate highway, and a major airport.
As one of only five certified inland port authorities in Nebraska, OIPA is a critical economic development tool designed to attract new industries, facilitate trade, and enhance the state’s role as a logistics and transportation hub. The Authority works to create shovel-ready industrial sites, secure public and private investment, and drive long-term job creation in Omaha and beyond.
Governed by a nine-member board appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council, OIPA operates with a mandate to foster sustainable, high-impact economic development. Through strategic partnerships and innovative planning, the Authority is positioned to be a key driver in shaping Omaha’s industrial and commercial landscape while ensuring transparency, active community engagement, and a positive economic impact for local businesses and residents.
The initial focus for the Omaha Inland Port Authority is the historically underserved North Omaha census tracts that experienced disproportionate economic impacts during the pandemic. Utilizing American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, the Inland Port Authority has established two priority projects, the expansion of the airport business park and the establishing of the Innovation District.
THE POSITION
The Executive Director of the Omaha Inland Port Authority will be responsible for shaping and leading an ambitious economic development initiative that will strengthen Omaha’s role as a transportation and logistics hub. This individual will oversee the development of shovel-ready industrial sites, collaborate with state and national stakeholders, and guide public-private partnerships to attract investment and industry.
Additionally, the Executive Director will be responsible for oversight of daily operations, including the hiring of staff and maintaining a positive work environment conducive to professional development for all employees. The Director will also be responsible for establishing internal procedures and policies to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.
This position requires a strategic leader who can bring together business leaders, developers, and government officials to maximize the economic impact of the Inland Port District. The Executive Director will market Omaha’s inland port to prospective businesses, leveraging the city’s geographic advantages to drive longterm economic growth. Infrastructure planning, financial oversight, and regulatory compliance will be key responsibilities, along with maintaining strong relationships with the OIPA Board, City of Omaha leadership, and regional economic development organizations.
A key focus of this role will be establishing a long-term vision for the Inland Port District that aligns with Omaha’s broader economic strategy. The Executive Director will be expected to pursue state and federal funding opportunities, including grants and revenue bonds, while overseeing land use planning and project development to ensure the successful execution of the port authority’s mission. Additionally, this role will require active public engagement, ensuring that businesses, residents, and policymakers are informed and invested in the inland port’s success.
PRIORITY INITIATIVES
- Development and/or expansion of the Airport Business Park for which $90 million in funds have been allocated to partner with the Omaha Development Corporation and Burlington Capital for development.
- Actively participate in and guide the Visioning Exercise for the $30 million Innovation District led by HR & A Advisors to facilitate a development plan that will complement the Airport Business Park.
- Assemble a high-performing team to manage daily operations, project oversight, and stakeholder engagement. Define the organizational structure needed to support OIPA’s long-term success and ensure that key roles are filled with experienced professionals.
- Build trust with local stakeholders, business leaders, and community organizations by fostering open communication, ensuring transparency in decision-making, and addressing concerns related to development and land use.
- Working with the Board, develop a long-term financial sustainability plan for OIPA that will support operations, ongoing infrastructure expansion, and ensure the Authority’s continued impact over time.
QUALIFICATIONS
The successful candidate will have a strong educational and professional background relevant to economic development, infrastructure planning, and business attraction. A bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, economic development, engineering, planning, or a related
field is required, with a master’s degree preferred. Candidates should have at least seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, business administration, government relations, or real estate development, with a demonstrated track record in managing large-scale projects and fostering stakeholder engagement.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in economic development, infrastructure planning, and relationship building. They should be a results-driven leader with experience in public-private partnerships, industrial site development, and business attraction strategies.
The ideal candidate will be:
- Experienced in public-private partnerships, with a strong track record of working across sectors to drive investment, infrastructure improvements, and business expansion.
- Experienced in business attraction and retention, with the ability to develop strategies that draw industries to a region and support long-term economic growth.
- A visionary leader with the ability to establish and execute a long-term strategic plan for the Inland Port District.
- An economic development expert with a deep understanding of business recruitment, site selection, and multimodal logistics.
- A skilled relationship builder who can collaborate with government agencies, private businesses, and community stakeholders.
- Financially savvy, with experience managing budgets, grants, and revenue bond financing.
- Experience in fundraising and working in collaboration with a donor/philanthropic community.
- A strong communicator, capable of advocating for the inland port at the local, state, and national levels.
- Experienced in infrastructure planning, overseeing industrial land use, public works projects, and transportation networks.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The Omaha Inland Port Authority offers a highly competitive executive compensation package, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The salary range for the Executive Director position is $190,000 to $250,000 with the expected hiring range as $190,000 to $220,000 plus a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Group health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage for the employee and eligible family
members. - Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Employer contributions to a retirement savings plan.
- Relocation assistance for the selected candidate if applicable.
- Additional benefits may include wellness incentives, professional development support, and other executive level perks.
Interested candidates will apply online at GovHRjobs.com with a cover letter, resume, and contact information for at least five (5) professional references by April 25. For further information contact MGT Vice President Charlene Stevens at cstevens@mgt.us (320-262-0303) or Director Mary Jacobs at mjacobs@mgt.us (847-380-3240 ext. 117).
THE OMAHA INLAND PORT AUTHORITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER