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Economic Development Officer

Do you want to become a Economic Development Officer? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Economic development officers (EDOs) are responsible for promoting the sustainable development of their local economy. They aim to attract investment into the local area, and deal with issues such as tackling unemployment.

EDOs are involved in managing many different projects, and the work includes:

• consulting the business community on local, regional and national issues
• maintaining records of local companies
• advising councillors and major decision makers
• marketing campaigns, keeping local residents and businesses informed
• organising employment/training schemes to enhance workforce skills
• identifying and promoting funding opportunities.

Some may cover many aspects of the work, while others working in larger teams may specialise in one area, such as tourism, culture and arts, or rural developments.

Most EDOs work between 35 and 40 hours a week, although tight deadlines often mean longer hours. While office based, there is frequent travel to local sites and businesses. It is possible to work part time or job share.

Salaries range from £21,000 a year to £60,000 or more for highly experienced EDOs.

An economic development officer needs:

• to be highly motivated, with vision and enthusiasm
• excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• excellent organisational skills
• marketing skills, able to influence a broad spectrum of people
• to be confident with budgets, measuring performance against targets.

Most EDOs are employed by local authorities, working at county, district or city levels. Some are placed within Regional Development Agencies, sub-regional partnerships, Business Enterprise establishments or charities. Jobs tend to be centred around urban areas, and employment opportunities are good.

Most EDOs have a degree. Relevant subjects include general business studies, marketing, economics or planning and surveying. The minimum requirements for degree courses are two A levels/three H grades and three GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3). Work placements within local authorities and proven leadership skills can be an advantage.

Individual employers usually provide training. A postgraduate Certificate, Diploma and MSc are available through the Institution of Economic Development.

With experience, some EDOs may be promoted to a senior or principal officer, or may lead larger teams of regeneration and economic specialists, possibly as a director or chairperson. Some become self-employed economic development consultants.

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