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.