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Economic Development Director Jobs in Manchester, NH

Town of Andover

Governance & Policy Manager

Andover, MA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Providing direct support of departmental operations as needed to increase capacity during times of ... Supporting operations across Planning, Economic Development, Building/Zoning, Conservation ...

Fidelity Investments

Director, Finance

Merrimack, NH

$110K - $222K/yr

Development of financial data analytics and competitive updates to functional business heads ... A Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or equivalent; MBA or advanced degree a plus ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Director JobsEconomic Development Director Jobs in Manchester, NH

Economic Development Director information

See Manchester, NH salary details

$47.3K

$120.9K

$197K

How much do economic development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development director in Manchester, NH is $120,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,300.00 and $149,700.00 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.

More about Economic Development Director jobs
What job categories do people searching Economic Development Director jobs in Manchester, NH look for? The top searched job categories for Economic Development Director jobs in Manchester, NH are:
Economic Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Director job openings in Manchester, NH 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 $120,877 per year, or $58.1 per hour.

DIRECTOR ECONOMIC STABILITY

State of New Hampshire

Concord, NH • On-site

$102K - $143K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

State Of New Hampshire rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 50 rated states

Job description

State of New Hampshire Job Posting
Department of Health & Human Services
Division of Economic Stability
Concord NH
DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC STABILITY
#9U420
$102,599.00 - $143,061.00
*See total compensation information at the bottom of announcement.
The State of New Hampshire, Department of Health & Human Services, Division of Economic Housing Stability has a full-time vacancy for Director of Economic Housing Stability
SUMMARY:
Provides strategic leadership and planning, programmatic and regulatory oversight, and operational direction for statewide programs and staff of the Division of Economic Stability (DES) which is responsible for administering programs and services for eligible New Hampshire residents by providing financial assistance, food and nutritional assistance, state supplement programs, Medicaid eligibility services, employment support, emergency assistance, and child support. Continuously works toward identifying and creating opportunities for generating greater alignment and integration across the Department.
YOUR EXPERIENCE COUNTS: Each additional year of approved formal education may be substituted for one year of required work experience and/or each additional year of approved work experience may be substituted for one year of required formal education.
QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: Master's Degree with a major study in Business or Public Administration, Human Services Administration, Social Work, or a field directly related to administering large social service programs. Ten years of experience in a public service, non-profit, or social service setting, five years of which should be at a management level position involving the direction and administration of social service programs and staff. Three of the five years of management experience should involve program/policy planning, evaluation, and performance management in the field of health and human services.
LICENSE/CERTIFICATION: A valid driver's license and/or access to transportation for use in statewide travel are required.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Requires proven leadership ability in planning and promoting the operations and goals of a large human service agency, including strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with the media.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Directs the implementation, integration, and coordination of all Division programs and activities, initiatives, and contracted services, for the Bureaus of Family Assistance, Child Support Services, Employment Supports, and staff responsible for administrative support; financial, business and personnel management; program planning, implementation and evaluation; policy and systems development and changes; field operations and training; New HEIGHTS and NECSES operations; statewide service delivery; and centralized operations including electronic client records and call center services.
  • Develops and implements organizational and systems improvements to meet program objectives and operational needs. Monitors the implementation of regulations, rules, policies, procedures, and protocols to ensure program integrity, compliance and consistency in program administration.
  • Directs multiple, innovative initiatives to reduce costs, increase efficiency and/or improve service delivery and outcomes. Evaluates overall program operations for effectiveness, proper allocation of resources, and program outcomes.
  • Executes strategic planning and development efforts, ensuring DES initiatives, programs, policies and plans are based on sound business and evidence-based practice, measurable outcomes, are compliant with all mandates, and align with the Department's mission and priorities. Analyzes, interprets and integrates programmatic, regulatory, financial, and outcome data and metrics to inform planning efforts and decision-making.
  • Collaborates in the identification and development of Division financial budgets as relates to business and operational impacts of statutory requirements of Federal and State regulations, Department initiatives, proposed administrative changes supporting informed decision-making, and compliance with fiscal mandates to ensure integrity in Division operations.
  • Directs and delegates supervisory and program responsibilities to bureau administrators and subordinate managers in all areas of responsibility, with overall accountability for all aspects of Division operations, staffing and personnel management.
  • Serves on the DHHS Executive Management Team to provide information and updates on DES programs and initiatives and provide input into issues with Department-wide impacts. Advises the DHHS Commissioner and Team members of Division priorities and operational challenges, gains support for Division resource needs and works toward effective solutions. Provides technical expertise and guidance in areas of programs, policies and regulatory matters.
  • Acts as the official representative of the Division and Department in communications and coordination with the Office of the Governor; State Legislature; elected officials; federal, state, municipal and community partner agencies; contract agencies and other internal and external stakeholders to advance the understanding of DES programs, goals, and objectives; respond to inquiries regarding statute and rule interpretations and departmental policies and procedures, increase collaboration and innovative programming; facilitate coordinated service delivery; and enhance responsiveness to consumer needs.
  • Testifies before legislative and public bodies and advisory and oversight committees to educate and promote understanding of Division programs, goals, and mandates; affect public policy decisions; and provide information as requested.

DISCLAIMER STATEMENT: The supplemental job description lists typical examples of work and is not intended to include every job duty and responsibility specific to a position. Any employee may be required to perform other related duties not listed on the supplemental job description provided that such duties are characteristic of that classification.
For further information please contact Christine Santanillo, Associate Commissioner, CHRISTINE.L.SANTANIELLO@DHHS.NH.GOV, 603-271-5023.
*TOTAL COMPENSATION INFORMATION
The State of NH total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits, including:
HMO or POS Medical and Prescription Drug Benefits:
The actual value of State-paid health benefits and the amount of employee health benefit contributions may vary depending on the type of plan selected and the bargaining unit with which a position is associated.
See this link for details on State-paid health benefits:
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/benefits.aspx
Value of State's share of Employee's Retirement: 12.87% of pay
Other Benefits:
*Dental Plan at minimal cost for employees and their families ($500-$1800 value)
* Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
*State defined benefit retirement plan and Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan
*Work/life balance flexible schedules, paid holidays and generous leave plan
*$50,000 state-paid life insurance plus additional low-cost group life insurance
*Incentive-based Wellness Program (ability to earn up to $500)
Total Compensation Statement Worksheet:
https://www.das.nh.gov/jobsearch/compensation-calculator.aspx
Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website:
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/documents/BenefitBrochure.pdf
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/index.aspx
EOE
TDD Access: Relay NH 1-800-735-2964

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