Vice President External Affairs

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) seeks a Vice President of External Affairs to support economic development in the Commonwealth through (i) leadership and strategy, (ii) policy development and legislative engagement, and (iii) partner engagement. This role is integral to achieving the goals outlined in the Strategic Plan for Economic Development of the Commonwealth of Virginia and supporting biennial updates to the plan in collaboration with local, regional, and state partners.

Responsibilities

Lead VEDP’s policy development, legislative engagement and partner engagement through strategic planning and tactical implementation. Key areas of responsibility include, but are not limited to:

Leadership and Strategy

• Lead the External Affairs Division, including training and developing staff members
• Develop and execute a strategy for policy development, legislative, and stakeholder engagement aligned with the Strategic Plan for Economic Development of the Commonwealth
• Collaborate across divisions and engage with VEDP’s Board of Directors to shape legislative and partner engagement strategy for the organization
• Facilitate engagement between VEDP leadership and staff and external stakeholders
• Develop clear, strategic messaging on policy and budget priorities, and prepare VEDP leadership and staff for external engagements
• Manage coordination with the executive and legislative branches and other agencies

Policy Development and Legislative Engagement

• Develop and lead VEDP’s annual legislative agenda, ensuring timely coordination with VEDP leadership and adherence to General Assembly and administration deadlines
• Analyze, prioritize, and track legislation and budget amendments impacting economic development
• Facilitate VEDP’s engagement with key stakeholders, including General Assembly members, their staff, and key committee personnel
• Plan and oversee legislative regional tours
• Coordinate VEDP’s legislative and budget insights with the Governor’s Administration, including preparation of eLAS, FIS, and EBR documents
• Develop presentations, talking points, and policy papers for VEDP
• Represent VEDP before legislative committees, regulators, and other speaking engagements
• Maintain and strengthen relationships with Virginia’s Congressional Delegation and their staff, supporting economic development initiatives and ensuring senior leadership engagement on key projects
• Provide strategic insights to VEDP Project Review and Credit Committee (PRACC) and coordinate meetings of the Major Employment and Investment (MEI) Project Approval Commission

Partner Engagement

• Oversee and coordinate VEDP’s engagement with external stakeholders including local and regional partners, Virginia Economic Developer’s Association (VEDA), Virginia Chamber, Virginia Association of Counties (VACo), and Virginia Municipal League (VML), among others, ensuring regular and strategic outreach
• Work with VEDP’s Marketing and Communications Division to develop partner communications and engagement strategies including written updates and conference presentations
• Organize meetings and regional tours for VEDP leadership and administration officials to enhance partnerships and regional awareness
• Cultivate relationships with local and regional economic development practitioners, project delivery partners, policy stakeholders, and other relevant leaders in the Commonwealth
• Represent VEDP at external events and functions relevant to its mission

Knowledge and Experience

• 10 years of relevant experience, including at least five years in policy development, legislative affairs, and/ or partner engagement (preferably in economic development)
• In-depth knowledge of Virginia’s legislative process, with bi-partisan and bicameral relationships with members of the General Assembly, staff, and other relevant stakeholders
• Proven strategic planning and execution experience
• Leadership and staff development experience
• Project and event management expertise
• Demonstrated ability to manage stakeholders with differing (sometimes conflicting) interests

Personal Attributes

• Strategic thinker and results-driven implementer
• Exceptional communicator, adaptable to various audiences
• Strong work ethic and attention to detail, with flexibility to work outside standard hours when needed
• Comfortable operating in fluid, high-visibility environments with executive leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders
• Collaborative team player
• Creative problem solver who thrives under pressure
• Natural relationship builder with strong interpersonal skills
• Apolitical but diplomatic and politically savvy

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., business, economics, marketing, government, public policy). Graduate degree preferred.

Compensation

Salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.

References and Background Information

It is VEDP's policy to complete an extensive background and reference check of candidates. Once strong mutual interest has been established, candidates are asked to provide a list of references that should include, but not be limited to, a supervisor, a peer, a development client and a subordinate, as applicable. Candidates will be asked to sign an authorization to release information for the purpose of background investigation, which may include verification of education, credit check, criminal, and driving records. Should an offer be extended prior to the completion of these checks, the offer will be made contingent on the successful completion of the reference and background checks.

Application Process

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 resume and cover letter. A valid Virginia driver’s license and ability to obtain a passport is required. Application deadline: Open Until Filled.

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.