Director of Business Development

DSWD Advisory Group LLC; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

DSWD Advisory Group LLC in Fort Wayne seeks an experienced Growth Leader to drive business development, strengthen client relationships, and raise the firm's profile in Northeast Indiana.

You will build a local network of referral sources, lead market growth initiatives, collaborate with firm leadership, and help shape strategic opportunities across tax, accounting, and advisory services.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years in public accounting or related professional services.
• Proven success in business development and client acquisition.
• Strong network in Fort Wayne and Northeast Indiana.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with growth focus.

Responsibilities

• Lead local market growth initiatives and expand DSWD's presence in Northeast Indiana.
• Develop and maintain a robust network of referral sources, business owners, attorneys, bankers, wealth advisors, and other centers of influence.
• Identify and pursue new client opportunities across tax, accounting, advisory, and consulting service lines.
• Participate in proposal development, client presentations, and prospect meetings.
• Collaborate with firm leadership to establish annual growth goals and initiatives.
• Represent the firm at networking events, conferences, and community organizations.

Skills

Business development

Relationship management

Networking

Leadership

Communication

Education

CPA designation (preferred)

Job description

DSWD Advisory Group is a growing accounting, tax, and advisory firm committed to helping clients achieve their personal and business goals. We combine technical expertise with a relationship-driven approach to deliver exceptional client service and innovative solutions. As we continue to expand, we are seeking talented professionals who share our commitment to growth, excellence, and community involvement.

About the Role

DSWD Advisory Group is seeking an experienced and entrepreneurial Growth Leader to join our Fort Wayne leadership team. This individual will play a critical role in expanding our presence in Northeast Indiana by driving business development, strengthening client relationships, and becoming a highly visible leader within the local business community. The ideal candidate is a relationship builder who thrives on creating opportunities, developing strategic partnerships, and helping businesses succeed. While public accounting experience is highly desirable, we are also interested in accomplished professionals from banking, consulting, wealth management, insurance, or other professional services industries who have strong ties to the accounting and business community. This position offers a unique opportunity to help shape the future growth of a rapidly expanding professional services firm while building a strong personal brand in the Fort Wayne market.

Responsibilities

• Business Development & Growth
• Lead local market growth initiatives and execute strategies to expand DSWD's presence throughout Northeast Indiana.
• Develop and maintain a robust network of referral sources, business owners, attorneys, bankers, wealth advisors, and other centers of influence.
• Identify and pursue new client opportunities across tax, accounting, advisory, and consulting service lines.
• Participate in proposal development, client presentations, and prospect meetings.
• Work collaboratively with firm leadership to establish annual growth goals and business development initiatives.
• Represent the firm at networking events, conferences, trade associations, and community organizations.
• Relationship Management
• Develop trusted advisor relationships with existing and prospective clients.
• Assist in retaining and expanding existing client relationships through exceptional service and strategic guidance.
• Facilitate introductions and cross-selling opportunities across the firm's service offerings.
• Serve as a key ambassador for the firm's culture, values, and commitment to client service.
• Community Leadership
• Become a recognized and respected leader within the Fort Wayne business community.
• Engage with local chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, professional associations, and nonprofit boards.
• Build visibility for the firm through speaking engagements, community involvement, and strategic networking.
• Promote DSWD as a premier provider of accounting, tax, and advisory services in the region.
• Serve as an active member of the Fort Wayne leadership team.
• Collaborate with partners and department leaders to identify market opportunities and growth strategies.
• Provide market intelligence regarding competitive trends, client needs, and emerging business opportunities.
• Support recruiting efforts by helping attract top talent and expanding the firm's local presence.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in public accounting, banking, consulting, wealth management, insurance, or another professional services industry.
• Demonstrated success in business development, relationship management, networking, and client acquisition.
• Strong professional network within the Fort Wayne and Northeast Indiana business community.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to develop trust and long‑term business relationships.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for growth and community engagement.

Required Skills

• Experience in public accounting or serving accounting firm clients.
• CPA designation (preferred but not required).
• Experience working with privately held businesses, business owners, executives, and professional advisors.
• Leadership experience within a professional services organization.

What Success Looks Like

The successful candidate will:

• Become a highly visible business leader in the Fort Wayne market.
• Expand the firm's referral network and community presence.
• Generate meaningful growth opportunities and new client relationships.
• Strengthen existing client relationships and enhance client satisfaction.
• Contribute to the strategic growth and long‑term success of the Fort Wayne office.

Equal Opportunity Statement

DSWD Advisory Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.