Economic Development Director Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s global economy, the role of an Economic Development Director has never been more crucial.

As economies evolve and grow, the demand for experienced individuals who can drive, nurture and manage economic growth surges.

But what does it really mean to be an Economic Development Director?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the dynamics of economic development,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we’re providing a customizable Economic Development Director job description template, designed for easy use on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

Economic Development Director Duties and Responsibilities

Economic Development Directors play a crucial role in formulating and implementing strategies that facilitate economic growth within a region or community.

They engage in research, planning, and development activities that are geared towards creating jobs and attracting businesses.

The duties and responsibilities of an Economic Development Director include:

• Developing and implementing economic development strategies and plans
• Identifying and responding to economic opportunities and challenges
• Working closely with public officials, business leaders, and community groups to promote economic growth
• Attracting new businesses to the area through marketing and promotion efforts
• Overseeing programs that provide assistance to local businesses and entrepreneurs
• Conducting economic and demographic research to inform strategic planning
• Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of economic development programs and initiatives
• Securing funding for economic development projects through grants and other resources
• Advocating for policies and legislation that support economic growth
• Building and maintaining relationships with external partners, such as investors, developers, and government agencies

 

Economic Development Director Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a strategic and forward-thinking Economic Development Director to lead our efforts in promoting community growth and development.

You will be responsible for developing and implementing economic development strategies, promoting business retention and expansion, identifying new business opportunities, and managing community development projects.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of economic and community development principles, excellent leadership skills, and a passion for building thriving, sustainable communities.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic economic development plans and projects
• Facilitate business retention and expansion efforts
• Identify new business opportunities and potential investors
• Engage with community members, business owners, and stakeholders to understand their needs and concerns
• Collaborate with government agencies, community organizations, and other partners to facilitate economic growth
• Manage community development projects and ensure their timely completion
• Monitor and analyze economic trends and market conditions
• Prepare and present reports on development progress and economic trends
• Ensure compliance with economic development policies and regulations
• Manage economic development budget and resources

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in economic development, community development, or a related field
• Strong understanding of economic and community development principles
• Excellent leadership and project management skills
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret economic data
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and business owners
• Bachelor’s degree in economics, business administration, urban planning, or related field. Master’s degree preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Economic Development Director
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel for meetings and site visits
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Executive Officer or City Manager
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $95,000 minimum to $175,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Economic Development Director Do?

An Economic Development Director typically works for cities, counties, states, or non-profit organizations to help them thrive economically.

Their main role is to plan, direct, and coordinate activities that help to boost the economy of their assigned regions.

This may include attracting new businesses, retaining existing businesses, or promoting economic growth through various projects and initiatives.

They work closely with local government officials, private sector leaders, and community members to understand the current economic climate and identify potential areas of growth.

Economic Development Directors are responsible for creating strategic plans and implementing them.

This may involve establishing business parks, developing real estate, creating job opportunities, or improving infrastructure.

They also monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of these initiatives, making adjustments as necessary to ensure they are meeting their economic goals.

Their job often involves negotiating contracts, managing budgets, applying for grants, and securing funding for their initiatives.

Economic Development Directors also play a key role in promoting their region to potential investors and businesses.

They may organize events, create marketing materials, or work with media to showcase the benefits of doing business in their area.

In addition, they often act as a liaison between businesses and local government, helping to streamline processes and solve any issues that may arise.

 

Economic Development Director Qualifications and Skills

An effective Economic Development Director should have the qualifications and skills that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong analytical skills to evaluate economic data and formulate economic development strategies that drive growth
• Excellent leadership and management skills to motivate and lead a team of professionals
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills to convey complex economic concepts to diverse audiences, including government officials, business leaders, and the public
• Deep understanding of economic trends, business principles, and public policy to guide strategic planning and decision making
• Superior networking skills to establish and maintain relationships with key community stakeholders and potential investors
• Project management skills to oversee and execute economic development initiatives, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget
• Experience with economic modeling tools and data analysis software to interpret and predict economic patterns
• Highly innovative and creative thinking to devise unique solutions to economic challenges

 

Economic Development Director Experience Requirements

The position of an Economic Development Director typically requires a significant amount of experience, often starting with a bachelor’s degree in economics, business, public administration, or a related field.

For entry-level roles in economic development, individuals may need at least 2 to 3 years of experience, usually gained through internships, part-time roles, or roles in related fields such as business consulting, public policy, or urban planning.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience typically have worked in economic development roles such as Economic Development Analyst or Economic Development Coordinator.

These individuals have usually gained a solid understanding of economic strategies, business attraction and retention, and project management.

Those with over 10 years of experience often have a wealth of knowledge in economic development strategies and have often held leadership roles.

They may have overseen large-scale economic initiatives, managed teams, and worked closely with city officials and business leaders.

For the role of Economic Development Director, employers often prefer candidates with a master’s degree in a related field and a proven track record of success in economic development.

Certifications such as Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) can also enhance a candidate’s qualifications.

 

Economic Development Director Education and Training Requirements

Economic Development Directors typically hold a bachelor’s degree in economics, business administration, public administration, or a related field.

They are required to have a thorough understanding of economic and business principles, strategic planning, and economic data interpretation.

Hence, coursework in these areas is beneficial.

Many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA), economics, or public administration.

This advanced degree provides a comprehensive understanding of economic strategies and policy-making.

Experience in the field of economic development is also crucial.

This can often be gained through internships, lower-level economic development roles, or relevant roles in the private sector.

Economic Development Directors must also have a solid foundation in budget management, project management, and public speaking.

Certifications in these areas, while not obligatory, can demonstrate a commitment to the profession and an enhanced skill set.

Continued education and staying current with economic trends and changes in laws and regulations affecting economic development are also necessary for this role.

This could be achieved through seminars, workshops, and continuing education programs.

 

Economic Development Director Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Economic Development Director is $94,225 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can vary significantly based on factors such as years of professional experience, education, the size of the organization, and location.

 

Economic Development Director Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Economic Development Director need?

Economic Development Directors need strong leadership, strategic planning, and excellent communication skills.

They should possess in-depth knowledge of economic and community development principles and be able to apply them effectively.

They also need to be adept at financial analysis, forecasting, and planning.

Good negotiation skills and political acumen are also required in this role.

 

Do Economic Development Directors need a degree?

Yes, Economic Development Directors typically need a bachelor’s degree in economics, business administration, public administration, or a related field.

A master’s degree in these fields can be beneficial.

They also need several years of experience in economic development, business development, or a related area.

 

What should you look for in an Economic Development Director resume?

Look for a strong educational background in relevant fields and experience in economic development, urban planning, or public administration.

Evidence of strategic planning, successful project management, and community engagement are also important.

Check for experiences that demonstrate leadership, financial analysis, forecasting, and negotiation skills.

 

What qualities make a good Economic Development Director?

A good Economic Development Director is an effective leader with strong strategic planning and decision-making skills.

They are excellent communicators and can effectively negotiate and build relationships with a variety of stakeholders.

A good director is also well-versed in economic trends and policies and has a keen understanding of financial analysis and forecasting.

 

What is the role of an Economic Development Director in local government?

In local government, an Economic Development Director typically oversees initiatives to promote economic growth within the community.

They work with local businesses, stakeholders, and government officials to create strategic plans for economic development.

They also identify and seek out potential opportunities for growth, such as new businesses or industries.

They may also be responsible for securing funding for economic development projects and initiatives.

 

Is it challenging to hire an Economic Development Director?

Hiring an Economic Development Director can be challenging due to the specific set of skills and experiences required for the role.

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in economics or business administration, as well as experience in strategic planning, project management, and negotiation.

Furthermore, they should have a demonstrated ability to work effectively with a variety of stakeholders, including local businesses, government officials, and the community at large.

 

Conclusion

And that wraps it up.

Today, we’ve unravelled the intricate fabric that makes up the role of an Economic Development Director.

Intriguing, isn’t it?

It’s not just about crunching numbers.

It’s about shaping thriving economies and creating sustainable growth, one strategic plan at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive Economic Development Director job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But don’t stop at that.

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next stop for creating precision-tailored job listings or honing your resume to an impeccable degree.

Remember:

Every strategic plan contributes to the larger economic landscape.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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