BUSINESS MANAGER, ADVANCED MATERIALS

Statewide Virginia

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is seeking a specialized or experienced business development professional to execute lead generation and pipeline development for priority companies in the Advanced Materials sector working directly with plastics, metals, and other material manufacturers within and outside Virginia. This individual will work within the Manufacturing Sector team, which is responsible for the Advanced Materials, Biopharmaceutical, and Food and Beverage Manufacturing industries, to recruit and support manufacturing investment and job creation in the Commonwealth.

Primary Responsibilities:

Lead Generation

Coordinate with Advanced Materials Industry Director to develop and execute on lead generation strategies and target company engagement

Identify new project opportunities through conducting lead generation campaigns, attending call trips, trade shows, and industry specific events, and developing client relationships

Support the development of VEDP’s annual lead generation calendar by recommending activities and events for assigned industries

Identify and build strong working relationships across industry stakeholders, including business decision-makers, trade associations, government organizations, affiliated economic development allies, higher education institutions, and other key stakeholders

Communicate insights from industry engagements to inform industry strategy

Pipeline Development

• Build and maintain a business development pipeline of Advanced Materials opportunities and nurture leads toward successful conversion to Business Investment Team
• Cultivate meaningful relationships that support the manufacturing sector in Virginia with priority companies
• Enhance ecosystem development efforts by identifying new and better ways to leverage Virginia’s resources, including higher education institutions, businesses, business groups, transportation assets, and other state-related entities, resulting in greater lead generation and project opportunities
• Consistently monitor pipeline status of potential projects and provide progress summaries as needed
• Ensure successful hand-off to project managers and provide continued support as needed to ensure project success

Skills:

• Strong relationship management skills and ability to quickly develop trusting working relationships
• Ability to sell and develop deals while providing ongoing client support
• Demonstrated ability to operate in a team environment and leverage stakeholders to advance organizational goals and objectives
• Excellent written and verbal communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
• Strong strategic analysis and problem-solving skills
• Excellent computer proficiency, particularly with spreadsheet (Excel) and presentation (PowerPoint) development; experience with Salesforce CRM software is a plus
• Strong organizational skills and time management ability to cultivate a high degree of responsiveness in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to telecommute and discipline to work independently from a home office
• Frequent in-state and out-of-state travel required

Experience Required:

• At least four years of relevant experience, preferably in manufacturing or supporting manufacturing sector clients
• At least five years of business development, marketing, or sales experience in a fast-paced, professional setting

Experience Desired:

At least two years of experience at a global firm in a manufacturing capacity

Participation and experience with government agencies and industry trade organizations is a plus

Comprehensive knowledge and demonstrated experience in the principles and practices of economic development, sales, business development, and lead generation

Being authorized to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. VEDP uses the E-Verify system and does not provide sponsorship.

All candidates must apply through our website https://www.vedp.org/careers. Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter. A valid Virginia driver’s license and ability to obtain passport is required. Salary Minimum: $90,000. 

Application deadline: November 18, 2024.

VEDP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or against otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities. It is VEDP’s intent that its employment and personnel policies and practices conform to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Applicants requiring more information or requiring assistance may contact VEDP Human Resources at 1-804-545-5634 or vedphr@VEDP.org. TDD 1-800-828-1120.