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Executive Director, DeKalb County Economic Development Partnership, Inc.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 3:31 PM | Jill Ewing (Administrator)

The DeKalb County Economic Development Partnership, Inc. (DCEDP) is a nonprofit agency recognized by the State of Indiana and the United States Government per section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. DCEDP is not a governmental unit, nor is it a political or social organization. The Partnership operates independently as a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to advancing the economic vitality of DeKalb County.

The Executive Director is responsible for planning and executing diverse programs and initiatives that strengthen DeKalb County’s economy. This role requires strong leadership, collaboration, and communication skills, along with excellent organizational and management abilities.

The Executive Director will lead initiatives that drive growth in key areas including business and industry retention and attraction, workforce development, housing, infrastructure, and quality of place. The position requires building and maintaining strong partnerships with government, nonprofit, business, and community leaders to ensure alignment and success. The Executive Director is also responsible for the oversight of organizational operations, including financial management, staff leadership, and stakeholder engagement.

Above all, the Executive Director must be passionate and dedicated to creating a vibrant local economy where businesses thrive, residents prosper, and the community grows together.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement strategies to retain, expand, and attract business and industry in DeKalb County.
  • Foster and maintain partnerships with public and private stakeholders, including elected officials, community leaders, and business partners.
  • Identify opportunities and secure resources to support economic and community development initiatives.
  • Collaborate with regional partners, state agencies, utilities, and site selectors to market DeKalb County as a competitive location for business and investment.
  • Oversee the management of organizational finances, budgets, and fundraising activities to ensure sustainability.
  • Provide leadership, guidance, and support to staff, consultants, and volunteers in executing the mission of the Partnership.
  • Represent DeKalb EDP at community events, regional initiatives, state policy discussions, and with the media.
  • Analyze data, trends, and project feasibility to inform decision-making and strategic planning.
  • Engage employers, educators, and workforce partners to address local workforce needs and opportunities.
  • Coordinate with local, regional, and state organizations to align strategies and resources.
  • Promote and market industrial, commercial, and community assets of DeKalb County.
  • Participate in and support the activities of the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership and other regional collaborations.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in business, public administration, economic development, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
  • At least five years of progressive experience in economic development, business development, public sector leadership, or related fields.
  • Proven experience in project management, budgeting, fundraising, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Strong communication, negotiation, and public presentation skills.
  • Ability to build trust and credibility with diverse community, business, and government stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated integrity, innovation, and results-driven leadership.

Interested?

Please direct resumes and inquiries to the Board President in care of the DeKalb County Economic Development Partnership:

DeKalb County Economic Development Partnership, Inc.
Attn: Rudi Eidam, Board President
112 South Jackson Street, Auburn, IN 46706
260-927-1180
Email: Rudi.eidam@sweitzerfamilyoffice.com

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