Business Development Manager/Director

Business Development Manager/Director

This role is located in Elkhart, IN .

Are you a strategic relationship builder who thrives on creating meaningful partnerships, driving growth, and making a lasting impact in the community? Do you enjoy building connections, developing opportunities, and working alongside leaders to create measurable results?

Then, we have a place for you!

Who We Are:

The Economic Development Corporation of Elkhart County is dedicated to advancing economic growth, strengthening business relationships, and creating opportunities that positively impact the region. Through collaboration with businesses, investors, municipalities, and community leaders, the EDC works to support long-term economic advancement and foster a thriving business environment throughout Elkhart County.

What We Offer:

• Exciting innovative, collaborative, and team-oriented work environment


• Challenging and progressive career development


• Competitive salaries


• Comprehensive Health & Benefit programs


• Retirement Program with Employer Match!


• Best practice Paid Time Off policies and paid holidays


• Open communication and team-building events


• And much more to motivated, results-oriented individuals who want to make a real difference in their community and role

What You'll Do:

As the Business Development Manager/Director, you will serve as a strategic revenue leader responsible for expanding the Company's network, strengthening investor confidence, and driving long-term financial growth to meet the organization's mission and economic development initiatives.

Your Accountabilities in the Role:

• Plans, manages, and executes strategic fundraising and business development initiatives to drive revenue growth, expand investment opportunities, and support the organization's long-term financial sustainability.


• Builds and maintains strong relationships with business leaders, investors, donors, municipal partners, and community stakeholders to increase engagement and secure organizational support.


• Develops and manages donor/investor pipelines through prospect identification, relationship cultivation, strategic outreach, and consistent follow-up to maximize funding opportunities.


• Partners with executive leadership to develop customized investment strategies, presentations, and communications.


• Creates and implements forward-thinking plans for fundraising, investor relations, business development, and community engagement while tracking progress through CRM systems and reporting metrics.


• Collaborates with internal teams and external resources to develop marketing materials, investor communications, and messaging to maintain cohesive organizational values and branding.


• Represents the organization by attending business events, civic engagements, and stakeholder meetings to promote economic development initiatives and strengthen external partnerships.

Position Requirements:

• Education: A Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Public Affairs, Communications, Economics, or similar; will consider an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.


• Experience: 2+ years of experience in business development, sales, or relationship management.


• Certifications: N/A


• Functional Skills: Strong planning, execution, and business development skills with the ability to identify opportunities, develop relationships, and execute revenue growth initiatives; strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines; effective problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate complex situations and develop creative solutions;


• Technology Skills: Advanced technology skills; proficient with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace products; Advanced skills with CRM systems, and databases.


• Language Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills; able to present to others, influence, and engage with internal and external groups and with all levels of the organization.


• Leadership/ Behaviors: Growth-minded professional with strong relationship-building, networking, and influencing skills; self-starter who is able to work independently, take ownership, and drive initiatives forward; exceptional collaboration and follow-through, with the ability to do what it takes to achieve organizational goals. Ability to work autonomously while collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve organizational objectives.


• Culture Match: Mission-driven professional who thrives in an entrepreneurial environment and is energized by building relationships, creating opportunities, and contributing to the long-term success of the organization and community.

Other Important Information:

Pay/Salary : Pay is commensurate with proven expertise.

And, the compensation will grow as the team member grows!

Reports To: President/CEO

Core Hours: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm (with flexibility required for community and networking events)

Typical Work Week: Monday to Friday ; occasional weekend work where required; 40-45 hours a week on average Direct Reports: None

Travel: 80% Travel (travels to Client/Prospect locations in the community)

Work Conditions: Primarily in the field visiting clients, other time spent in an office environment with moderate noise.