DIRECTOR, FOOD AND BEVERAGE

Virginia Economic Development Partnership • Richmond, VA

418d • $110,000 - $110,000

About The Position

The Director of Food and Beverage at the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is responsible for managing and growing investment development ecosystems within Virginia's Food and Beverage Manufacturing sector. This role emphasizes fostering industry growth, enhancing collaboration among stakeholders, and driving business engagement through lead generation and strategic partnerships. The Director will work closely with the Manufacturing Sector Team to lead economic development initiatives in the Food & Beverage Manufacturing industry.

Requirements

• 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.

Nice To Haves

• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Benefits

• Salary minimum: $110,000; salary commensurate with experience.
• Equal Opportunity Employer policies ensuring non-discrimination and affirmative action.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Industry: Administration of Economic Programs
• Education Level: No Education Listed