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Director Of Economic Development information

See Kansas salary details

$43.3K

$110.5K

$180.2K

How much do director of economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of economic development in Kansas is $110,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $136,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director of economic development do?

A Director of Economic Development is responsible for creating and implementing strategies to promote economic growth within a city, region, or organization. This role typically involves attracting new businesses, supporting existing businesses, fostering job creation, and coordinating with government agencies, community groups, and private sector partners. The director also analyzes economic trends, develops incentive programs, and oversees projects that enhance the community’s economic well-being. Their efforts are aimed at improving the local economy, increasing employment opportunities, and enhancing the overall quality of life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of economic development, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Of Economic Development, you need expertise in economic analysis, strategic planning, and community development, typically supported by a degree in economics, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), economic modeling software, and grant management tools is often required, along with certifications such as CEcD (Certified Economic Developer). Exceptional leadership, stakeholder engagement, and negotiation skills help drive successful partnerships and project implementation. These skills and qualities are essential for fostering sustainable economic growth, securing funding, and aligning diverse interests for community benefit.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of economic development, and how can candidates prepare to address them?

Directors of Economic Development often encounter challenges such as balancing the interests of various stakeholders, navigating regulatory and policy constraints, and adapting to shifting economic trends. Candidates should be prepared to build strong relationships with local government, business leaders, and community organizations, while effectively managing competing priorities. Staying informed about economic data, policy updates, and best practices in economic development will help candidates anticipate challenges and proactively develop solutions. Effective communication, negotiation, and strategic planning skills are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Director Of Economic Development vs Economic Development Coordinator?

AspectDirector Of Economic DevelopmentEconomic Development Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree; often master's in economics, business, or public administrationBachelor's degree; relevant experience may suffice
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, leadership, stakeholder engagementProject support, research, community outreach
Employer & Industry UsageLocal government, economic development agencies, non-profitsMunicipal offices, economic development departments

The Director Of Economic Development typically holds a higher level of responsibility, focusing on strategic planning and leadership, while the Economic Development Coordinator supports projects and community outreach. Both roles are essential in economic growth initiatives but differ in scope and seniority.

Is economic development a good career path?

A career as a Director of Economic Development involves planning and implementing strategies to improve local economies, requiring skills in project management, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement. It offers opportunities for leadership, community impact, and professional growth, often with a competitive salary and advancement potential. Success in this field depends on relevant education, experience, and understanding of economic trends.

What are popular job titles related to Director Of Economic Development jobs in Kansas?

For Director Of Economic Development jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Director Of Economic Development jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Of Economic Development jobs in Kansas are:

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Director Of Economic Development jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Director Of Economic Development job openings:

Director Of Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Of Economic Development job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,530 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Director of Industry Partnerships

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

University Of Kansas rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

65% Industry Partnership Engagement
  • Identify, engage, build, and advance corporate relationships that integrate research, technology engagement, and workforce development.
  • Identify and facilitate engagement with emerging industry partnership opportunities by gathering market intelligence and leveraging faculty expertise when appropriate capitalizing on federal funding opportunities and roadmap intelligence.
  • Initiate, coordinate, and facilitate corporate interactions both on campus and at corporate sites.
  • In collaboration with KU faculty, leverage federal programs and opportunities (e.g., DOE, DOD, NSF, NIH) that involve industry-academic partnerships.
  • Represent the industry partners' needs and interests to KU offices and departments that facilitate execution of collaborations while ensuring alignment with KU's engagement strategies.
  • Develop and implement marketing tools and materials that highlight KU's research expertise and capabilities.
  • Identify and engage non-commercial stakeholder partners when their interests align with an area of interest or need.
20% Collaboration
  • Strengthening and expanding collaborative relationships with schools, departments, centers, and faculty to promote KU's breadth of expertise.
  • Coordinate with the Managing Director to identify collaborative opportunities across KU campuses that leverage expertise in key thematic areas.
  • Work collaboratively with the Managing Director and Deans to develop and manage high-level strategic partnerships.
  • Partners with KU Endowment, the Center for Technology Commercialization, KU Innovation Park, Jayhawk Community Partners, Career Services, and others too, when appropriate, broaden and deepen industry engagement.
  • Work closely with KU's contracting departments to represent the voice of the partner and their interests as may be beneficial.
10% Strategic Development
  • Support faculty and research staff through training and one-on-one guidance to help them develop and maintain industry relationships.
  • Stay abreast of and incorporate best practices in academic-industry partnerships and actively participate in national organizations such as AUTM and UIDP.
  • In partnership with KU Innovation Park, develop programming and engagement strategies that support the retention, recruitment, and growth of industry presence at KU.
5% Other Duties
  • Other duties as assigned by the Managing Director or Associate Vice Chancellor for Economic Development.
,The Director of Industry Partnerships serves as a member of the Office of Economic Development and plays a leading role in driving industry and stakeholder engagement at the University of Kansas. Reporting to the Managing Director, Corporate and Stakeholder Engagements, the Director is responsible for identifying, developing, and executing mutually beneficial research partnerships with corporate, federal, state, and other entities.
The Director will work closely with the leadership and faculty in the School of Engineering, the College of Liberal Arts and Life Sciences, the School of Pharmacy, and associated research centers, to translate KU expertise, innovation, and research capabilities into impactful collaborations. This individual will serve as a conduit between KU research expertise and industry, cultivating relationships that lead to sponsored research, workforce development, technology engagement, and strategic partnerships that advance KU's mission and industry needs. The Director will collaborate with colleagues across complementary disciplines to ensure cohesive-facing strategies across KU.
The Director will identify, engage, build, and advance a robust portfolio of corporate partners while stimulating engagement strategies and collaborations across a complex academic environment to support KU's institutional goals.
Position Goals:
  • Increase the number of new corporate partners and relevant stakeholders engaging in research or research related activities.
  • Develop new, and support existing, research partnerships by engaging faculty, research staff, and centers.
  • Maintain an in-depth understanding of faculty research expertise and research capabilities to promote mutually beneficial partnerships and increase industry-sponsored research.
  • Develop and manage corporate relationships while, when appropriate, coordinating with campus units to broaden and deepen engagement within KU.
  • Develop an understanding of federal opportunities and identify appropriate applications that stimulate industry-academic-federal collaborations.
  • Collaborate with KU Innovation Park, the KU Center for Technology Commercialization, KU Endowment, Career Services, Jayhawk Community Partners, and others to identify new partnership opportunities and leverage ongoing activity.

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