Join the Greater Waco Chamber Team

Why Greater Waco — and Why Now

Greater Waco is one of Texas’ fastest-growing metros — a community that combines the energy of a major university city (Baylor University) with the economic advantages of being centrally located between Dallas-Fort Worth and Austin. With a cost of living well below major metros, a diverse industrial base, and a regional population topping 280,000, Greater Waco is on the radar of site selectors and corporate decision-makers nationwide and globally.

The Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce (GWCC) is the driving force behind this momentum. Our award-winning economic development team has been recognized for excellence in business attraction, regional strategy, and community impact. We’re now looking for a VP of Business Development to join our team as we take the region’s growth to the next level.

The Opportunity

This is a high-visibility, high-impact executive role for a dynamic business development professional who thrives on building relationships, closing deals, and shaping the economic future of a community. You’ll work directly alongside the Executive Vice President to identify, attract, and land businesses — both domestic and international — that bring quality jobs and capital investment to the Greater Waco region.

You’ll have real engagement, real resources, and real results to show for your work. If you’ve spent your career doing economic development or business engagement and you want a role where your contributions are visible and valued, this is it.

What You’ll Do

Business Attraction & Strategy

• Coordinate domestic and international business recruitment efforts in targeted and emerging industry sectors.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive business recruitment strategy in coordination with the EVP.
• Build and manage relationships with site selectors, corporate executives, and real estate professionals who view Greater Waco as a top-tier investment destination.
• Collaborate with the ED team to develop compelling incentive packages, financing options, and location proposals.
• Collaborate with the team throughout the full project lifecycle: inquiry response, proposal development, site tours, and deal closure.

International Business Development

• Identify and pursue foreign direct investment opportunities aligned with the GWCC’s strategic goals.
• Build relationships with foreign consulates, trade organizations, and multinational companies.
• Represent Greater Waco at international trade missions, conferences, and networking events.
• Develop strategies to attract international companies to establish operations or partnerships in the region.

Stakeholder Engagement & Retention

• Partner with local businesses to identify growth, expansion, and collaboration opportunities.
• Build and sustain relationships with local, state, and federal economic development partners.
• Plan and execute outbound events and inbound familiarization (FAM) tours for prospects.

Research, Reporting & Budget

• Conduct market research, competitive location analysis, and data-driven prospecting to sharpen lead generation.
• Provide regular reports and presentations to the GWCC board, members, and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with the EVP to develop and manage the annual business development budget.
• Pursue grants, partnerships, and sponsorships to expand resources for economic development initiatives.

What We’re Looking For

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, International Business, Economics, Public Policy, or a related field required.
• 5+ years of experience in economic development, business attraction, business development, international trade, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience in a leadership role with performance and accountability for results.

Skills & Knowledge

• Proven track record attracting business investment in both domestic and international markets.
• Strong command of economic development principles, incentive programs, and workforce strategies.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and working with government, business, and community stakeholders.
• Knowledge of international trade regulations, global markets, and foreign direct investment practices.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Strong analytical abilities; comfortable with market research and data-driven decision-making.
• Ability to handle confidential matters with discretion and professionalism.
• Familiarity with the Greater Waco region’s economic landscape is a plus — but a passion for it is a must.

Core Competencies

• Leadership & Vision: Inspires, leads, and influences stakeholders to drive economic growth.
• Strategic Thinking: Implements long-term plans and adapts effectively to changing environments.
• Relationship Building: Builds and sustains strategic partnerships across sectors and borders.
• Results Orientation: Consistently meets or exceeds goals and delivers tangible economic outcomes.
• Collaboration: A true team player who thrives in a fast-paced, competitive environment.

Compensation & Benefits

We offer a competitive executive compensation package designed to attract top talent, including:

• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401K Retirement plan with employer contribution
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Cell phone allowance
• Mileage reimbursement or vehicle allowance
• Professional development support and memberships

How to Apply

We’d love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and a cover letter describing your qualifications and your vision for driving economic growth in Greater Waco to:

Kris Collins, Executive Vice President | kcollins@wacochamber.com

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We will acknowledge receipt of your application and reach out to qualified candidates for an initial conversation. We look forward to learning more about you.