SVRA Research & Communications Coordinator

INSTITUTE FOR ADVANCED LEARNING AND RESEARCH • Danville, VA

40d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research & Communications Specialist leads data-driven storytelling and analysis to support regional economic development. This role combines market research, business intelligence, and strategic communication to strengthen recruitment efforts and elevate Southern Virginia’s brand. The position involves collecting and interpreting complex data, crafting insights for executive decision-making, and translating findings into compelling visuals and narratives that position the region as a premier location for investment and talent.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Economics, Business Analytics, Public Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 2+ years of experience in marketing, journalism, analytics, or economic development.
• Strong writing, editing, and presentation skills—comfortable translating data into persuasive messages.
• Demonstrated success in digital communications, social media and web content management.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, social media tools, and content management systems (WordPress, Joomla, etc.).
• Creative thinker with an analytical mindset; collaborative, adaptable, and organized.
• Organized, deadline-driven, and comfortable balancing multiple projects while working in a team driven environment.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with data visualization or analytics tools is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Track regional, state, and national trends in target industries (advanced manufacturing, logistics, materials, energy, etc.).
• Maintain records and create reports in Salesforce.
• Collect, analyze, and publish data on demographics, workforce, and business assets.
• Develop economic profiles for the region and localities, including demographics and econometric data.
• Build and maintain a dynamic database of regional companies, service providers, and leadership.
• Benchmark peer regions and identify opportunities for competitive positioning.
• Prepare clear, visual reports and dashboards to guide business and workforce recruitment decisions.
• Transform research into compelling stories through infographics, profiles, and digital campaigns.
• Manage and grow SVRA’s digital presence (website, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, X/Twitter, Constant Contact).
• Collaborate on branding and marketing campaigns, ensuring data supports messaging.
• Develop newsletters, success stories, regional updates, and partner communications.
• Support media outreach and regional marketing initiatives.
• Evaluate campaign performance and recommend improvements.
• Partner with local economic developers, workforce organizations, higher education institutions, and state/federal agencies.
• Promote SVRA assets to existing and prospective industries within the region.
• Provide research support for business recruitment, site selection, and workforce projects.
• Assist with events, prospect visits, and regional briefings.
• Support partner organizations and SVRA Board activities.

Benefits

• IALR offers unique career opportunities in an innovative environment, all to support the economic transformation of Southern Virginia.
• Eligible employees are afforded excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage with lower-than-expected costs and participate in the Virginia Retirement System to save for their future.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees