The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is seeking a specialized or experienced business development professional to execute lead generation and pipeline development strategies for the Software and Cybersecurity industries. The Business Manager will promote Virginia to targeted corporate executives as the preferred location for new and expanding business facilities. This individual will work within the Knowledge Work team, which is responsible for lead generation and ecosystem development in 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:
Develop and execute VEDP’s lead generation programs to target companies, key multipliers, and commercial real estate brokers
Contribute to VEDP’s annual lead generation calendar by recommending lead generation activities for assigned industries
Lead cold and warm outreach to secure key meetings with target accounts
Identify new projects in market through conducting lead generation campaigns, attending call trips, trade shows and events, and developing client relationships
Build and maintain a business development pipeline of software and cybersecurity opportunities and nurture leads toward successful handoff to the Business Investment team
Consistently monitor pipeline status of potential projects and provide progress summaries as needed
Prepare pitch decks, briefings, and marketing presentations
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 lead generation and ecosystem development strategy
Maintain strong relationships with VEDP’s economic development partners, clients, and other stakeholders
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
Strong relationship management skills and ability to quickly develop trusting working relationships
Demonstrated ability to sell and develop deals, while providing client support
Ability to telecommute and discipline to work independently from a home office
Frequent in-state and out-of-state travel required
Experience:
At least five years of business development, marketing, sales, or economic development experience in a fast-paced, professional setting; OR at least five years of experience working in or supporting clients in the software or cybersecurity fields, preferably in a role that emphasizes interpersonal interactions
Marketing and project management experience in a local or regional economic development office is preferred
Participation and experience with government agencies and industry trade organizations is a plus
Comprehensive knowledge and demonstrated experience in the principles and practices of economic development, sales, business development, and lead generation
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. Salary minimum: $90,000. 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.