Regional Economic Development & Partnerships Lead

Columbus Partnership; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan

Generous paid time off

Holidays

Free parking

Downtown office

Job summary

The Columbus Partnership, a nonprofit organization of CEOs in Columbus, is seeking a seasoned economic development professional to strengthen relationships with existing employers across the Columbus Region and identify growth opportunities. The role coordinates engagement activities, tracks business intelligence, and supports incentive programs to drive long‑term regional success.

Ideal candidates have 5–10 years in economic development, a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, and a valid

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in planning, development, real estate, business or related field.
• 5–10 years’ experience in economic development or related field.
• Valid driver’s license and clean motor vehicle report required.

Responsibilities

• Support the execution of business retention and expansion strategies designed to strengthen existing employers and promote long‑term economic growth throughout the region.
• Coordinate and prepare for company engagement activities by gathering relevant business intelligence, research and market information to support productive discussions and informed decision‑making.
• Collaborate with local, regional and state partners to plan, coordinate and follow up on company visits, meetings and strategic engagement opportunities.
• Identify business opportunities, challenges and emerging risks and communicate actionable recommendations to internal teams and partner organizations.
• Connect companies with resources, programs, incentives and subject matter experts that support business growth, workforce needs and operational success.
• Prepare professional correspondence, market information, proposals and other materials that support company engagement and business development activities.

Skills

Research skills

Analytical thinking

Attention to detail

Communication

Team collaboration

Time management

Client/stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in planning, development, real estate, business or related field

Tools

Salesforce

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Columbus Partnership, a nonprofit organization of CEOs in Columbus, is seeking a seasoned economic development professional to strengthen relationships with existing employers across the Columbus Region and identify growth opportunities. The role coordinates engagement activities, tracks business intelligence, and supports incentive programs to drive long‑term regional success.

Ideal candidates have 5–10 years in economic development, a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, and a valid