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Economic Development Director Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Tourism Program Manager

Stafford, VA · On-site

$96K - $169K/yr

Economic Development Opening Date: 06/17/2026 Starting Salary: $96,720 to $132,995 based on ... Works alongside the Director and Project Manager to manage, develop, and execute the department ...

... at local industry and economic development meetings and eventsDiscovery of new opportunities and ventures for USRL to participate inRequirements3-5 years of sales or sales-related ...

Tourism Program Manager

Stafford, VA · On-site

$96K - $169K/yr

... a positive economic impact to the County. Works alongside the Director and Project Manager to ... and development. Examples of Duties Develops, implements, manages, and markets, programs that ...

Showing results 21-40

Economic Development Director information

See Virginia salary details

$48.1K

$122.9K

$200.3K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Virginia is $122,871.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,700.00 and $152,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Economic Development Director vs Economic Development Specialist?

AspectEconomic Development DirectorEconomic Development Specialist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Economics, Business, or Public Administration; experience in economic planningSimilar credentials, often with less managerial experience
Work EnvironmentLeadership role in government agencies or economic development organizationsSupport role, assisting with projects and research
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, regional agencies, economic development firmsLocal government departments, economic development offices
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in economic developmentLearning about supporting roles in economic growth projects

The main difference between an Economic Development Director and an Economic Development Specialist lies in their level of responsibility and leadership. The Director oversees strategic planning and manages teams, while the Specialist focuses on supporting projects and research. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work within government or economic organizations, but the Director holds a higher managerial position.

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

To thrive as an Economic Development Director, you need expertise in economic analysis, project management, and public policy, typically supported by a degree in economics, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with economic modeling software, GIS tools, and grant management systems is often required, along with certifications such as Certified Economic Developer (CEcD). Strong leadership, strategic communication, and relationship-building abilities help foster collaboration among public, private, and community stakeholders. These skills are crucial for identifying growth opportunities, securing funding, and driving sustainable economic progress in a community or region.

What are the main challenges economic development directors face when balancing community needs and business interests?

Economic Development Directors often need to align the interests of local businesses, government stakeholders, and community members, which can be challenging due to differing priorities. For example, attracting new businesses might conflict with preserving community character or addressing affordable housing. Success in this role frequently involves transparent communication, creative problem-solving, and building consensus through public engagement and strategic partnerships. Navigating these complexities requires adaptability and a strong understanding of both economic trends and local needs.

What does an economic development director do?

An Economic Development Director is responsible for creating and implementing strategies to promote economic growth within a community or region. They work to attract new businesses, support existing ones, and encourage job creation by collaborating with local government officials, business leaders, and community organizations. Their duties often include managing economic incentive programs, overseeing redevelopment projects, and conducting market research to identify opportunities for development. Ultimately, their goal is to improve the local economy and enhance the quality of life for residents.

What is an economic development director?

An economic development director is a city government employee who helps spur the city economy. Your two biggest responsibilities are to persuade new businesses to move into your town and to encourage existing businesses to expand. You attend fundraising events for civic and business groups and interact with donors to make connections with potentially valuable economic partners. Your duties include developing strategic programs for economic and financial growth, analyzing market trends, writing city tax policy proposals, and advising the city manager and the city council.

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Economic Development Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,871 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

Executive Director of Career and Talent Development

Radford University

Radford, VA • On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Radford University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Executive Director of Career and Talent Development

Apply now Job no: 55000485
Work type: Administrative & Professional Faculty
Location: Radford
Categories: Executive / Director / Management, Student Affairs / Services, Academic Affairs

Title: Executive Director of Career and Talent Development

Campus Location: Radford City - Main Campus

Job Description

Radford University seeks a collaborative and energetic leader to serve as the Executive Director of the Center for Career and Talent Development. Reporting to the Associate Provost for Academic Affairs, the Director provides strategic leadership and direction for a team responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating career and talent development opportunities, programs, and events that connect employer partners with the university's students, faculty, and alumni. The portfolio of the Executive Director for The Center for Career and Talent Development includes strategic vision, employer cultivation and engagement, career exploration, talent development, job placement, student employment support, personal and professional development, and the development of a Student Employment unit within the Center. The Director cultivates and secures key external relationships, partnerships and opportunities; serves as an expert on industry trends and needs and how they can help inform students on current talent acquisition processes and inform areas of opportunities for Radford and what we offer for students; develops collaborations with advising, faculty, colleges and other internal leaders across academic affairs, economic development, advancement and alumni relations; and creates and assesses programs. Externally, the Director will serve on professional boards, such as VACE (Virginia Association for Colleges and Employers), the SCHEV work-based learning initiatives, or NACE or career center director consortium. This oversight will include leadership and development of the professional and student staff in the department and budget management.

Required Qualifications

Track record of success and experience in leading change and employer cultivation and engagement. Experience in planning and assessing career development, professional development, human resources management, or corporate talent acquisition programs and strategies. Management experience in and knowledge of the employment needs of corporate, non-profit, governmental, educational, or entrepreneurial ventures and organizations. Proven ability in building relationships and strategic partnerships with a wide range of internal and external constituents. Appreciation for the role of higher education in preparing students for future career success. Evidence of a varied career with progressively responsible supervisory and management experience; demonstrated experience in developing strategy and or strategic vision, budget leadership and management. Excellent communication skills and professionalism with proven ability to navigate across diverse internal and external stakeholders. Strong fiscal planning and budget management abilities. Proficient with current office software with the ability utilize current technology and social media. Experience working with diverse populations.
Education: Advanced degree; or a Bachelors degree with experience that equates to an advanced degree.

Preferred Qualifications:

Advanced degree and significant experience in career services, talent acquisition related fields or equivalent training, education, or experience. Talent management and leading strategic plans.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Spelman Johnson is assisting with the search for candidates. Applications can be submitted at this link: https://spelmanandjohnson.com/position/executive-director-of-career-and-talent-development/
Applications are not being accepted on this website. Please use the link provided above to apply.

Is this position Grant Funded: No

Is this position restricted: No

Is this position eligible for telework: No

Hours Per Week: 40

Months per Year: 12

Statement of Economic Interest Required: Yes

FLSA Status: Exempt

Work Classification: Administrative & Professional Faculty

Employee Classification: Administrative - Lecturer

Department: Career Services

Salary: $90,000 - $130,000 (Commensurate with experience and qualifications)

Department Contact Name: Jeanne Mekolichick

Department Contact Phone: 540-831-5114

Department Contact Email: jmekolic@radford.edu

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Radford University does not discriminate with regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, or political affiliation in the administration of its educational programs, activities, admission or employment practices.

Clery Statement

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, Radford University publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The report includes the university's policies, procedures, and programs concerning safety and security, as well as three years' of crime statistics for our campus. As a prospective employee, you are entitled to a copy of this report. The report and statistical data can be found online at Radford.edu/police. You may also request a paper copy of the report from the Radford University Police Department located at 810 East Main Street PO Box 6883, Radford, VA, 24142.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

If you are an individual with a disability and desire accommodation in the application process please contact the hiring department.

Criminal Background Check Statement

Radford University is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all employees, students, volunteers, and stakeholders. As part of our hiring and screening process, we conduct criminal background checks in compliance with Virginia Code 19.2-389 and other applicable state and federal laws. Successful candidates will be required to have a criminal background check.

Advertised: 12 Jun 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:

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