Career

The Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce (GWCC) is actively seeking a dynamic, results-driven individual to join its award-winning economic development team and serve as the Vice President of Business Development within the Economic Development Department. This position reports to the Executive Vice President (EVP) and works directly with the EVP in developing and executing strategies that meet the GWCC’s goals for high impact job creation, capital investment, and quality business growth for the Greater Waco region.

The VP of Business Development is responsible for identifying and generating new business attraction and relocation opportunities, qualifying prospects, and collaborating with the Economic Development (ED) team to create tailored business proposals that drive new growth opportunities in Greater Waco.

This role involves both international and domestic business development initiatives aimed at strengthening Greater Waco’s status as a premier destination for investment, business expansion, and job creation. The Vice President will build strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, organizations, and collaborate with local, state, and national organizations to attract and retain businesses across targeted industries. Domestic and international travel will be required with this position.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategy Implementation:

  • In coordination with EVP, develop and execute a comprehensive business recruitment strategy focused on both domestic and international business growth in targeted industry sectors.
  • Identify emerging sectors, market trends, and potential areas of growth for the Greater Waco region.
  • Align business development efforts with regional economic priorities and the GWCC’s overall mission and goals.
  • Collaborate with EVP to establish individual/team goals related to business development to ensure performance and strategic outcomes.

• Business Attraction & Expansion:

  • Manage efforts to attract new businesses to the region in targeted and emerging industry sectors that leverage and capitalize upon Greater Waco’s unique advantages.
  • Build upon relationships with local, state, and federal partners to facilitate business expansions and attraction.
  • Create, foster and enhance relationships with site selectors, corporate executives, and development professionals to present Greater Waco as a competitive location and community of choice for domestic and international investment.
  • Collaborate with the EVP and ED team in the development of incentive packages, financing options, and other resources to support business growth and relocation.
  • Collaborate with the ED team to create an efficient process, including inquiry responses, proposal development, site tours, project management, and deal closure.
  • Collaborate and contribute to the planning, execution and tracking of business development activities, including outbound events and inbound “FAM” tours.

• International Business Development:

  • Build upon existing international business relationships and identify foreign direct investment opportunities that meet the GWCC’s strategic goals for jobs, investment and quality business growth for the region.
  • Build relationships with foreign consulates, trade organizations, and multinational companies to promote Greater Waco as an ideal business destination.
  • Participate in international trade missions, conferences, and networking events to expand Greater Waco’s global footprint.
  • Develop strategies to attract international companies to establish operations or partnerships within the region.

• Business Retention and Workforce Development:

  • Work closely with the Economic Development Director to gather a deep understanding of the existing local businesses of Greater Waco and identify opportunities for connectivity and collaboration to support business development and retention initiatives.

• Research & Data Analysis and Reporting:

  • Support business intelligence efforts by researching, collecting, and analyzing data to enhance lead generation, prospecting, and location proposals, as well as conducting comparative location analysis of peer and best-in-class markets, particularly those with similar industry clusters.
  • Provide regular reports, presentations and/or updates on economic development activities to the GWCC’s board, members, and stakeholders.

• Budgeting & Resource Management:

  • Collaborate with EVP to develop and manage the annual business development budget to align with the department’s and GWCC’s goals and objectives.
  • Secure funding and resources through grants, partnerships, and sponsorships as needed to support economic development initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Education: A bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Economics, Public Policy, or a related field is required.
• Experience: A minimum of 10 years of experience in economic development, business attraction, business development, international trade, and/or a related field with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

Skills & Knowledge:

• Must be able to work with confidential matters.
• Proven track record in driving business development and investment attraction in both domestic and international markets.
• Strong understanding of economic development principles, incentive programs, and workforce development strategies.
• Experience in leading cross-functional teams and working with various stakeholders, including government, business leaders, and community organizations.
• Knowledge of international trade regulations, global markets, and foreign direct investment strategies.
• Exceptional written, communication and presentation skills are essential.
• Ability to effectively negotiate.
• Strong analytical abilities and experience with market research and data-driven decision-making.
• Familiarity with the Greater Waco region’s economic landscape, industries, and growth potential is a plus.

Competencies:

• Leadership & Vision: Ability to inspire, lead, and influence stakeholders to drive economic growth.
• Innovative/Strategic Thinking: Skilled in implementing long-term plans and adapting to changing business environments.
• Relationship Building: Proficient in building and maintaining strategic relationships with key stakeholders across multiple sectors.
• Results-Oriented: Demonstrated ability to meet or exceed goals and drive tangible economic results.
• Team-Oriented: Collaborative team player, able to thrive in a fast-paced, competitive environment.

Reports To: Executive Vice President

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume outlining their qualifications and interest in the position to:

Tori Lentz
Economic Development Coordinator
tlentz@wacochamber.com