The Business Development Specialist cultivates a strategic network of business leaders and other stakeholders to provide business support, site selection services, local and state business incentives, governmental ombudsman services, and financing opportunities to existing KCMO businesses and companies seeking to relocate, expand, and create jobs in the City of Kansas City, Missouri.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the implementation of EDCKC’s job creation and business support strategy.
- Cultivate relationships with C-suite business leaders and leaders in local government to support business retention and expansion (BR&E) in Kansas City, Missouri.
- Partner with and assist local industry associations to improve Kansas City’s economic competitiveness and the climate for growth and development.
- Promote and coordinate the use of local and state business incentives to aid in job creation, business retention and expansion, and business recruitment in Kansas City, Missouri.
- Manage projects in coordination with EDCKC staff and other strategic partners in business retention, growth, and recruitment activities.
- Maintain excellent records and routinely update the CRM system for all meetings and projects.
- Maintain a current and deep understanding of local and state incentives.
- Identify other resources beyond the standard incentives.
- Write reports and proposals, and complete applications.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Ancillary Responsibilities:
- Monitor developing incentive programs in conjunction with industry trends.
- Implement strategies related to business retention and expansion (BR&E), target industry development, and initiatives to support site readiness.
- Develop relevant industry expertise to support target industry development.
- Develop a wide-ranging network of business leaders, local elected officials, and other stakeholders in Kansas City.
Job Qualification:
Education & Experience:
- A bachelor’s degree in liberal arts, business, public administration, urban planning, or economics is a plus.
- A minimum of three years of experience related to economic development, local or state government, executive relationship management, or real estate is preferred.
- A track record of cultivating relationships with business, civic, and/or governmental leaders is preferred.
- Must have a valid driver’s license.
- Kansas City, Missouri, residency, or a willingness to relocate within a reasonable period of time, is required.
Required Skills & Abilities:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with colleagues and stakeholders.
- Proficiency in CRM software to maintain accurate records and track business development activities.
- Strong communication, writing, and presentation skills.
- Ability to cultivate a network of business leaders, governmental leaders, and strategic partners.
- Ability to identify and leverage incentives and other resources for business growth.
- Strong analytical skills to assess business opportunities and prepare strategic recommendations.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and independently manage multiple projects.
