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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN

Aep

External Affairs Manager

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$116K - $151K/yr

Strategically build, maintain and manage key environmental, economic development and community contacts and relationships. * Manage, coordinate and facilitate solutions to emerging strategic ...

Easterseals

Director of Employment Services

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$57K - $88K/yr

... economic development agencies, and community partners to expand employment opportunities and ... Financial Management & Regulatory Compliance * Direct departmental budgeting, financial forecasting ...

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Economic Development Manager information

See Fort Wayne, IN salary details

$30.6K

$101.6K

$152.9K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Fort Wayne, IN is $101,645.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $122,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an economic development manager?

Economic Development Managers are professionals responsible for planning and implementing strategies to boost economic growth within a community, city, or region. They work with government agencies, businesses, and other stakeholders to attract new investments, support local businesses, and create jobs. Their role often involves analyzing economic data, coordinating development projects, and promoting the area to potential investors. By fostering a healthy business environment, they help improve the overall quality of life for residents.

What are some common challenges economic development managers face when balancing community needs with business interests?

Economic Development Managers often navigate the complex task of balancing the goals of attracting new businesses and investments with the needs and concerns of the local community. Challenges can include addressing potential impacts on housing, infrastructure, and the environment while ensuring job creation and economic growth. Success in this role relies on strong stakeholder engagement, transparent communication, and creative problem-solving to find solutions that benefit both the community and business partners. Collaboration with local government, business leaders, and residents is essential for developing sustainable, mutually beneficial strategies.

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

To thrive as an Economic Development Manager, you need expertise in economic analysis, project management, and community engagement, typically supported by a degree in economics, urban planning, or public administration. Familiarity with GIS tools, economic modeling software, and grant management systems is often required, along with certifications like CEcD (Certified Economic Developer). Strong networking, negotiation, and communication skills help build effective partnerships and foster stakeholder collaboration. These competencies enable Economic Development Managers to drive sustainable growth, attract investment, and successfully implement development initiatives within communities.

What is the difference between Economic Development Manager vs Urban Planner?

AspectEconomic Development ManagerUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in economics, urban planning, or related field; often certifications in economic developmentBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related field; licensure may be required
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, economic development organizations, private sectorMunicipalities, government agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on economic growth, business attraction, and job creationFocuses on land use, zoning, and community development

While both roles aim to improve communities, the Economic Development Manager concentrates on economic growth and business development, whereas the Urban Planner focuses on land use and urban design. Their skills and work environments often overlap, but their core objectives differ.

Is economic development a good career path?

Economic development managers plan and implement strategies to improve local economies, often working with government agencies, businesses, and community organizations. The role requires strong analytical, communication, and project management skills, and it can offer opportunities for advancement and community impact. It is considered a stable career with demand in many regions, especially for those with relevant education and experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Economic Development jobs in Fort Wayne, IN?

The most popular types of Economic Development jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:

What are popular job titles related to Economic Development Manager jobs in Fort Wayne, IN?

For Economic Development Manager jobs in Fort Wayne, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Economic Development Manager jobs in Fort Wayne, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Manager jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:

What cities near Fort Wayne, IN are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs?

Cities near Fort Wayne, IN with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:

Economic Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Fort Wayne, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,645 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Partnership Development Manager

Leo-cedarville, IN

Briner Building
Construction • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Briner Buildingexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description


Specific Job Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Maintain regular contact with Briner Building's existing clients to foster long-term relationships, encourage repeat business, and identify future project opportunities.
  2. Identify, develop, and cultivate new client relationships throughout Briner Building's primary service area, with a focus on Northeast Indiana and surrounding markets (approximately a two-hour radius of Bluffton, Indiana).
  3. Develop relationships with:
    • Owners and developers
    • Architects and engineers
    • Construction managers
    • Municipalities
    • Economic Development Corporations (EDCs)
    • Site selection consultants
    • Commercial real estate professionals
    • Butler Manufacturing representatives
    • Strategic trade partners and suppliers
  4. Manage and continually improve the company's Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system (Salesforce), including:
    • Reviewing the current database structure
    • Maintaining accurate client information
    • Tracking opportunities and sales activities
    • Recommending improvements to maximize effectiveness
  5. Develop and maintain a strategic prospecting database that identifies:
    • Target markets
    • Prospective clients
    • Planned developments
    • Manufacturing expansions
    • Commercial and industrial construction opportunities
  6. Develop and maintain an annual networking and business development plan that includes participation in:
    • Trade shows
    • Industry conferences
    • Junior Achievement programs
    • Job and career fairs
    • Chamber of Commerce events
    • Economic Development Corporation meetings
    • Professional associations
    • Community organizations
    • Business networking events
  7. Identify business opportunities through:
    • Business incubators
    • Industrial parks
    • Commercial developments
    • Economic development initiatives
    • Local municipalities
    • Manufacturing growth announcements
  8. Attend and actively participate in weekly sales and business development meetings.
  9. Assist clients during the early stages of project development by preparing preliminary budgets, conceptual pricing, and Range of Magnitude (ROM) estimates.
  10. Assist estimating personnel with project estimating and proposal preparation as directed.
  11. Assist with conceptual, schematic, and construction document development during the design-build process.
  12. Coordinate the transition of awarded projects to the estimating, project management, and operations teams.
  13. Maintain regular communication with clients throughout the preconstruction process to ensure exceptional customer service.

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