Economic Development Manager

Economic development managers promote the economy of a neighbourhood, district or region by increasing the number of jobs, identifying new markets and opportunities for growth and trying to attract new employers.

Improving the skills of the local workforce through targeted training and getting long-term unemployed people back into work are integral to the job. This means consulting widely with employers, public and voluntary sector organisations and the community, and forming partnerships to take action.

Economic development officers who work in teams, particularly in larger local authorities, may specialise in one area such as tourism or culture and the arts.

The skills and experience you need

Economic development managers must be numerate and have excellent verbal and written communication skills to enable them to influence and persuade a range of different groups, from councillors and employers to the unemployed.

Managing projects to tight deadlines, conducting opinion and economic surveys, bidding for funding, organising careers fairs, making records of local companies and measuring performance are all day-to-day challenges.

A degree in business studies, marketing, economics, planning or surveying are all particularly relevant. Postgraduate certificate, diploma and MSc qualifications are available through the Institution of Economic Development (www.ied.co.uk). Employers usually provide additional training or work-shadowing programmes.

It is possible to move into economic development from a background in town planning and surveying. Experience in a related field such as marketing or project management can also be an advantage.

Undergraduates interested in working in economic development should undertake voluntary work for a useful insight into the role. To get relevant experience contact Volunteering England at www.volunteering.org.uk

Likely types of employer

Local authorities
Regional development agencies and sub-regional partnerships
Enterprise initiatives such as Business Link
Voluntary sector regeneration organisations

Salary ranges

Salaries start at around £21,000 a year but economic development officers working for local authorities can expect to earn from £23,500 to £27,500 depending on their experience.

More senior officers may earn £60,000 or more.

More information

Testimonials

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