American Electric Power

Economic & Business Development Manager

American Electric Power • $116K — $151K *
Fort Wayne, IN 46835In-Person
Business Services
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in economics, engineering, finance, business administration, or a related field preferred; at least 5 years of relevant experience
  • OR an associate's degree with a minimum of 7 years in economic/business development
  • OR a high school diploma/GED with 8 years of economic/business development experience
  • Proven strategic and analytical skills
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills to engage diverse stakeholders
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively manage economic development projects

Responsibilities

  • Lead site development initiatives including partner alignment and deliverables
  • Develop targeted marketing strategies to promote available sites
  • Support business attraction initiatives through various coordination efforts
  • Create high-quality marketing and presentation materials for recruitment
  • Build and maintain networks with site selectors, brokers, and real estate partners
  • Manage CRM data for project tracking and visibility
  • Collaborate with technical teams to develop proposals and address challenges
  • Provide regular insights for leadership decision-making and planning
  • Act as the first contact for new leads, conducting vetting and qualification
  • Ensure professional communication during early project engagements

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefits package aimed at enhancing employee well-being
  • Opportunities for professional development and certification support
  • Supportive work culture that promotes collaboration
  • Access to resources that aid in personal and professional growth
  • Unique programs designed to foster work-life balance
Full Job Description

Job Posting End Date

07-13-2026

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Job Description

What you’ll do:

As the Economic and Business Development Manager, you are the tip of the spear—hunting, pursuing, and closing high-impact load and job growth opportunities by deploying coordinated site readiness, target industry strategy, and business attraction tactics.

  • Lead coordination and execution of site development initiatives (e.g., Future Ready Sites), including partner alignment, timelines, and deliverables

  • Develop and execute targeted marketing strategies and materials to promote available sites and buildings across the I&M footprint

  • Coordinate and support business attraction initiatives

  • Develop high-quality marketing and presentation materials to support business recruitment efforts

  • Build and maintain strong relationships and contact databases with site selectors, brokers, and commercial real estate partners

  • Manage and continuously improve CRM data integrity for project tracking, pipeline visibility, and reporting

  • Coordinate closely with technical teams to develop proposals and work through challenges

  • Develop regular reporting and insights to inform leadership decision-making and strategic planning

  • Serve as the initial point of contact for new leads, conducting preliminary vetting and qualification

  • Ensure timely, clear, and professional communication throughout early-stage project engagement

What we’re looking for:

  • Bachelor's degree in economics, engineering, finance, business administration or related field preferred with a minimum of 5 years of economic/business development including industry-specific experience.

  • OR associate's degree with minimum of 7 years of economic/business development including industry-specific experience.

  • OR High school diploma / GED with 8 years of economic/business development including industry-specific experience.

  • Demonstrated strategic and analytical skills.

  • Strong oral and written communications skills, with ability to build relationships and achieve objectives through collaboration with multiple entities both within and outside the organization.

  • Demonstrated ability to strategically manage economic development projects.

Preferred Requirements:

  • Certified Economic Development Professional designation or similar certification preferred.

  • Master's degree preferred.

What you’ll get:

In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-009

Compensation Range:

$116,255.00 - $151,132.50

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.  

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About American Electric Power

American Electric Power generates, transmits, and distributes electricity, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers nationwide. AEP serves millions of customers across 11 states. It operates in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity, providing power to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. AEP generates electricity using diverse sources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewable energy like wind and solar. The company maintains a vast transmission network that delivers electricity from power plants to local distribution systems, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. AEP is actively involved in renewable energy initiatives, investing in wind farms and solar facilities to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce its environmental impact. Additionally, the company engages in community outreach, supporting education, environmental conservation, and various social initiatives.

American Electric Power Careers

Join the dynamic team at American Electric Power (AEP), one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, and ignite your career with a company known for its commitment to innovation and leadership in the energy sector.

Opportunities Await

At AEP, we offer a multitude of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional interests. Whether you're seeking an entry-level position or a more senior role, our diverse range of employment options ensures that there's a place for every ambitious individual in our team.

Grow and Innovate

Embark on a journey of growth and professional development with AEP. Our company is at the forefront of the energy industry’s transformation, integrating sustainable and innovative practices that not only lead the market but also contribute to a greener planet. Engage in work that challenges the status quo, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the energy sector.

Culture and Benefits

AEP is dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, where every team member’s contribution is valued. We offer competitive benefits that support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees and their families. From comprehensive health benefits to professional development programs and diversity training, AEP ensures that our team is equipped for both personal and professional success.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with an AEP internship. Our programs provide invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities that pave the way for future employment. Interns at AEP work on real projects, learn from seasoned professionals, and gain the hands-on experience necessary to succeed in the fast-paced world of energy.

Leadership and Development

Leadership at AEP means more than guiding teams – it involves inspiring change and driving innovation. With leadership development programs, employees are prepared to take on challenging roles that shape the future of the company and the industry. Our focus on leadership and continuous improvement creates an environment where ambitious professionals can thrive.

Join Our Team

Explore the career possibilities at American Electric Power today. Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are constantly hiring new talent and look for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Prepare your resume, ace the interview, and join a company where your career can flourish.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at AEP by following our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives, industry-leading insights, and career tips that you can put to use today—all from the people who work here.

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Explore American Electric Power Jobs

Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, AEP offers a dynamic work environment where innovation, leadership, and growth are part of everyday life. Join us in powering a new and brighter future for everyone.
Learn more about American Electric Power
Size
16,688 employees
Market Cap
$48.8 billion
Industry
Energy & Utilities
Net Income
$2.2 billion
Founded
1906
5 Year Trend
+0.5%
Revenue
$14.9 billion
NASDAQ
AEP
* Ladders Estimates

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