Jacqueline Brinkman is an economic development specialist and CEO of Economic Development Australia (EDA), the national peak body for economic development.  

Jacqueline’s leadership of EDA commenced in 2017 and since that time, EDA’s membership has more than tripled and revenue has increased exponentially. Jacqueline was responsible for the development and launch of the highly successful National Economic Development Education and Training Program in 2020. This program has proven to be a step change in career development for Australian Economic Development profession. Jacqueline is also leading a range of research and advocacy projects with the aim to raise awareness of the impact of the Australian economic development sector. 

Through a career spanning 20+ years, Jacqueline is recognised as one of Australia’s most experienced industry cluster managers, and has facilitated industry development and investment across a range of sectors. Her advocacy and lobbying has resulted in legislative change at a Local, State and Federal Government level.  

Jacqueline has held Chief Executive roles across a range of sectors in QLD and NSW, is an award-winning copy writer and an experienced company director having Board positions on a range of Government bodies and NFP organisations. Jacqueline is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD).