DIRECTOR, FOOD AND BEVERAGE

Statewide, Virginia

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is seeking a business development-focused Food and Beverage Manufacturing Industry professional to manage and grow investment develop ecosystems across Virginia’s Food and Beverage Manufacturing sector. This role will focus on fostering industry growth, enhancing ecosystem collaboration, and driving business engagement through lead generation and building strategic partnerships. The Director will work within the Manufacturing Sector Team, which leads economic development for Food & Beverage Manufacturing, Life Sciences and Advanced Materials industries in Virginia.

Primary Responsibilities:

Lead Generation and Pipeline Development

• Collaborate with the sector team to design and execute lead generation strategies for the Food and Beverage Manufacturing industry.
• Identify and pursue business development opportunities through targeted lead generation campaigns, site visits, industry events, and trade shows.
• Leverage Virginia’s unique resources to identify new opportunities for business growth and sector development.
• Maintain ongoing relationships with key industry players, identifying opportunities for tailored support and fostering sustained business engagement.

Ecosystem Building and Stakeholder Engagement

• Develop and implement strategies to create a dynamic ecosystem that attracts talent and drives business growth in the Food and Beverage Manufacturing industry.
• Build and sustain long-term relationships with key stakeholders, including government entities, industry leaders, and private-sector partners, to ensure the effective execution of industry growth strategies.
• Regularly convene stakeholders across the public and private sectors to align on priorities and drive collaborative initiatives focused on sector development.
• Serve as the lead coordinator for government stakeholders on Food and Beverage Manufacturing projects and initiatives.

Sector Expertise

• Cultivate deep insights into the Food and Beverage Manufacturing sector to enhance VEDP’s economic development efforts and anticipate trends that could impact industry growth.
• Lead research initiatives and gather intelligence to inform strategic decisions and ensure the state remains competitive in attracting food and beverage manufacturing businesses.
• Share insights with internal and external partners to inform priority initiatives and develop regional ecosystems that support industry growth.

Experience and Skills Required:

• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in business development, economic development, or a related field, with specific expertise in the Food and Beverage Manufacturing sector preferred.
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, private-sector partners, and industry organizations.
• Demonstrated experience in business development, lead generation, and successfully managing complex projects in the manufacturing sector.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to deliver compelling presentations and engage with senior stakeholders.
• Exceptional strategic analysis and problem-solving abilities, with a keen understanding of economic development principles and lead generation techniques.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint), and experience with CRM tools like Salesforce is a plus.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and ‘on-the-go,’ balancing working from a home office, reporting to Richmond office, and travel within and outside Virginia to support business development activities.

Experience Desired:

• At least 3 years of experience working directly in the Food and Beverage Manufacturing industry, including in business development, operations, or strategic consulting.
• In-depth knowledge of location decision factors specific to the manufacturing sector and experience with site selection processes.
• Experience working with government agencies, industry councils, and professional organizations related to the Food and Beverage Manufacturing sector.
• Familiarity with startup ecosystems or launching new business ventures in the manufacturing or food-related industries.
• A strong network within the food and beverage sector, including industry leaders, technology providers, and academic institutions.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. (VEDP uses E-Verify and does not offer sponsorship).

All candidates must apply through our website https://www.vedp.org/careers. Applicants must submit a résumé and a cover letter. A valid Virginia driver’s license and the ability to obtain a passport are required. Salary minimum: $110,000; salary commensurate with experience. Application deadline: December 6, 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 assistance may contact VEDP Human Resources at 1-804-545-5634 or vedphr@VEDP.org. TDD 1-800-828-1120.