Director of Business Development

The Role:

The Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development is seeking an energetic Director of Business Development who will lead all deal-making activities for the organization. This will include business attraction, assisting existing businesses with expansions and some work with startups. The role involves interfacing with clients, understanding their needs and then crafting and executing solutions so that companies can add jobs to the greater Knox County area. The position involves prospecting, communicating, deal construction and some travel to regional trade shows and events. The role will report to and work in close collaboration with the President.

The Organization:

The Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development is a growing 501c6 non-profit that provides economic development services for the greater Galesburg/Knox County, IL area. We work closely with both our government partners and the private sector to grow jobs and capital investment in the region. The organization is ten years old and is funded by a mix of public and private dollars. This position is being added because the organization is expanding the scope of its workplan. KCAP is well-situated with strong support from investors and board members. KCAP follows a targeted-industry approach to development, with viable plays in food processing, manufacturing, and rail-oriented development.

The Community:

Knox County is located in Western Illinois, approximately halfway between the Peoria and Quad Cities MSAs. The county-wide population is 50,000 people and the community has a very affordable cost of living coupled with ample urban amenities. Galesburg is the largest city in Knox County, with a population of 30,000. Bestplaces.net estimates Knox County’s cost of living to be 30% lower than the national average. The median household income in Knox County is $50,263. Residents have their choice of rural, suburban or urban living, with innovative schools and a diverse arts scene. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Knox County’s various parks, lakes and trails. In addition, Chicago is three hours away and accessible via five daily Amtrak trains for those craving big city recreation and cultural opportunities. Major employers include BNSF Railway, OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Blick Art Materials, and Western Smokehouse Partners.

Desired Skills and Qualifications:

• Prior experience working with an economic development organization or else strong experience working in commercial real estate leasing, business finance or business development.
• Functional knowledge of common economic development programs like TIF, Enterprise Zone, revolving loans, etc.
• Basic understanding of business finance including reading business plans, pro-formas, understanding balance sheets, P&Ls etc.
• Track record of maintaining client confidentiality
• Basic understanding of commercial real estate, including leasing terminology and the sales transaction process
• Experience working with local government and basic understanding of zoning and codes
• Likeable personality and someone who can connect with persons of varying backgrounds
• Strong Networking/Interpersonal Skills
• Strong organizational & written communication skills

Our Selection Process & How to Apply:

Strong preference will be given to candidates that have dealmaking experience in an economic development role. We will consider candidates that need to be trained, but those candidates should expect a pro-rated salary based on their experience level.

To apply, send a resume and cover letter to ken@knoxpartnership.com with the subject line “Director of Business Development”. Applicants must either reside in or be willing to relocate within an hour’s drive of Knox County, IL. This role cannot be performed remotely. KCAP is an equal opportunity employer. Please let us know of any specific accommodations that you would need for this role.