Associate Business Manager

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is seeking an Associate Business Manager to provide professional services to the Knowledge Work (KW) team. This role will support the execution of lead generation and pipeline development strategies in the Aerospace and Defense Innovation industries, promoting Virginia to targeted corporate executives as the preferred location for new and expanding business facilities, as well as ecosystem development initiatives. This individual will work within the Knowledge Work team, which is responsible for the Aerospace & Defense Innovation, Business Services, Cybersecurity, Financial Services, and Software industries, which represent some of the Commonwealth's largest potential job growth opportunities. 

Responsibilities:

• Support VEDP’s lead generation programs to create new leads from prospective companies, industry associations, and commercial real estate brokers
• Identify new projects through conducting lead generation campaigns, attending call trips, trade shows and events, and developing client relationships
• Lead cold outreach to secure key meetings with target accounts
• Support the development of VEDP’s annual lead generation calendar by recommending lead generation activities for the Aerospace & Defense Innovation industry
• 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 
• Support the development of industry initiatives that generate new inquiries and prospects for the Knowledge Work team
• Assist with preparing memos, pitch decks, briefings, and marketing presentations
• Maintain strong relationships with VEDP’s economic development partners, clients, and other stakeholders
• 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

Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to operate in a team environment and leverage partners in public and private sectors, including higher education partners, and local and regional economic development partners
• Skilled in initiating and nurturing relationships through cold outreach
• Excellent written and verbal communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational skills and ability to plan and successfully manage multiple tasks
• Work well under pressure and within tight deadlines
• Make decisions based on logical analysis and sound judgement
• Proficiency in MS Office suite required
• Experience with Salesforce is a plus
• Demonstrated ability to sell and develop deals, while providing client support, is a plus
• Ability to telecommute and discipline to work independently from a home office
• Frequent in-state and out-of-state travel required

Experience:

• At least two years of relevant experience, preferably supporting Knowledge Work sector clients
• Marketing and project management experience in a local or regional economic development office is desirable
• Participation and experience with government agencies and industry trade organizations is a plus
• Valid Virginia’s driver’s license and ability to obtain a passport required

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 résumé and a cover letter indicating their interest and experience for this specific position. Salary minimum: $60,000. Application deadline:  April 18, 2025.

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.