Director of Business and Economic Development

Position Summary :

Our Environmental Nonprofit client is seeking a dynamic Director of Business and Economic Development to spearhead initiatives aimed at attracting bioindustrial manufacturing companies to the North San Joaquin Valley (NSJV) and nurturing a thriving regional ecosystem for the circular bioeconomy.

Operating as an integral part of the leadership team, the ideal candidate will possess strategic vision, robust business acumen, and a commitment to fostering economic and environmental progress.

Reporting to the Chief Program Officer, the Director of Business Development will hold a pivotal role in identifying, engaging, and nurturing partnerships with anchor bioindustrial manufacturing firms, facilitating access to capital and infrastructure, supporting bioeconomy startups in accessing resources, and fostering innovation and collaboration within the circular bioeconomy sector.

Essential Functions :

Business Attraction : Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy to entice bioindustrial manufacturing companies to the NSJV, emphasizing job creation, connecting firms with local feedstock suppliers, expanding the bioproduct customer base, and promoting site readiness and marketing.

Anchor Firm Engagement : Cultivate relationships with anchor firms through targeted financial and process incentives, facilitate business relationships with suppliers and customers in the region, showcase the region's competitive advantages, and foster cluster effects to enhance industry connectivity.

Incentive Program Management : Design and coordinate with local and state public agencies to administer flexible, firm-specific incentives aligned with regulatory reforms and financial incentives supporting anchor employer siting and expansion in the NSJV.

Program Management : Oversee multiple organizational services and programs directly supporting and accelerating bioeconomy firms in the NSJV, including a startup accelerator, technical assistance programs, and commercialization matching grants program.

Supervise a team of one-to-two program staff to implement these programs.

Infrastructure Assessment : Evaluate site requirements and readiness to support bioindustrial manufacturing activities, support marketing of priority sites in the region for biomanufacturing, and facilitate connections between firms, brokers, relevant economic development agencies, and sites.

Partnership Development : Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including technical assistance providers, government agencies, consultants, and economic development organizations, to leverage resources, collaborate to market the region, and accelerate bioindustrial manufacturer activities.

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities :

Business Development Expertise : Demonstrated track record in developing and executing business attraction strategies, preferably in the manufacturing, agricultural, or renewable energy sector.

Industry Knowledge : Familiarity with bioindustrial manufacturing processes, market trends, and regulatory landscape, with a focus on circular economy principles and sustainability.

Relationship Management : Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with anchor firms, government agencies, and industry stakeholders.

Strategic Thinking : Ability to think strategically, anticipate industry shifts, and develop innovative solutions to attract and retain bioindustrial manufacturing companies.

Communication Skills : Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively articulate complex ideas and influence key decision-makers.

Project Management : Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Collaborative Leadership : A collaborative and inclusive leadership style, with a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Education and Experience : Bachelor’s Degree and 8+ years professional experience required. Educational or professional experience in a science or technology-driven field, especially in biomanufacturing or a closely related sector, preferred.

Experience in environmental sustainability or climate technology is a plus.

Mobility : Candidate must be able to attend in-person meetings across the North San Joaquin Valley region.

Anticipated salary range is $100,000-$120,000, based on experience. Annual bonus and competitive benefits package including :

Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)

Retirement Plan

Life Insurance

Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, & Public Holidays)

Family Leave

Hybrid work arrangements permitted