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Economic Development Director Jobs in Madison, WI

CFS

Finance Director

Mcfarland, WI · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

As Finance Director, you'll help shape the financial future of a growing city while partnering ... Influence major community initiatives, including economic development projects, infrastructure ...

Public Consulting Group

Operations Director

Madison, WI · On-site

$99.10 - $140/hr

Our Human Services team helps state and municipal human services and economic development agencies ... Proven track record of successfully managing teams of direct report employees. Experience with ...

Jobtailor

Regional Business Director - Urology

Oregon, WI · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Guide direct reports in territory planning, funnel development, sales forecasting, account ... development is required. * Demonstrated ability to engage both clinical stakeholders and economic ...

Realta Fusion Inc.

Head of Finance

Madison, WI

Direct Realta's external accounting firm, coordinating month-end close, reconciliations, audit ... Support economic development and incentive agreement processes, including financial reporting ...

Realta Fusion, Inc.

Head of Finance

Madison, WI · On-site

Direct Realta's external accounting firm, coordinating month-end close, reconciliations, audit ... Support economic development and incentive agreement processes, including financial reporting ...

Realta Fusion Inc.

Head of Finance

Madison, WI · On-site

Direct Realta's external accounting firm, coordinating month-end close, reconciliations, audit ... Support economic development and incentive agreement processes, including financial reporting ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Director JobsEconomic Development Director Jobs in Madison, WI

Economic Development Director information

See Madison, WI salary details

$48.9K

$124.9K

$203.6K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Madison, WI is $124,898.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,200.00 and $154,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

More about Economic Development Director jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Madison, WI are:

What job categories do people searching Economic Development Director jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Director jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Economic Development Director jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Economic Development Director job openings:

Economic Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,898 per year, or $60 per hour.

Regional Economic Development Director

Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation

Madison, WI • Remote

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Regional Economic Development Director
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)
Location: Remote (Wisconsin-based)
Reports To: Senior Economic Development Director

About WEDC

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) works with businesses, communities, and partners statewide to foster innovation, support job creation, and strengthen Wisconsin's competitive position. Driven by a mission to make Wisconsin the best place to live, work, and build a business, WEDC is a purpose-driven organization that values integrity, collaboration, and forward-thinking solutions, and invests in its people so they can help invest in Wisconsin's future.

WEDC is a Wisconsin-based organization with a remote-work-first environment. Remote work is expected to be performed in the state of Wisconsin.

Role Overview & Key Responsibilities

The Regional Economic Development Director serves as the primary WEDC representative for communities and businesses within an assigned region of Wisconsin. This role helps drive economic growth by connecting organizations with resources, providing strategic guidance, managing development projects, and building strong partnerships with local, regional, and statewide stakeholders.

The assigned territory includes Eau Claire, Chippewa, Dunn, Barron, Polk, St. Croix, and Pierce counties.

In this role, you will:

  • Serve as a trusted advisor to businesses, communities, and economic development partners within the assigned region
  • Identify and support business and community development opportunities through strategic consultation and resource deployment
  • Manage a portfolio of regional accounts and build strong relationships with local stakeholders and partner organizations
  • Review projects and provide recommendations related to economic and community development investments
  • Assist businesses and communities with financing strategies, program implementation, and access to available resources
  • Monitor project performance and support ongoing compliance and reporting activities
  • Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to advance regional economic development goals
  • Represent WEDC at meetings, conferences, public events, and speaking engagements throughout the region

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