The Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) serves as the official economic development entity for Montgomery County, Maryland to accelerate business development, attraction, retention and expansion in key industry sectors while advancing equitable and inclusive economic growth.

Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public-private partnership and is funded by Montgomery County. They are dedicated to attracting, retaining and expanding businesses within key industries to Montgomery County, Md.

The vision is to drive effective economic prosperity initiatives that foster job growth, and to cultivate a business ecosystem conducive to a vibrant and competitive local economy.

MCEDC intends to be a leader of innovation and a premier destination, characterized by a culture that embraces diversity, inclusivity and equity.

THE POSITION

The Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) is seeking a dynamic and experienced VP of Business Development to lead efforts in attracting, retaining, and expanding businesses in the region. In this pivotal role, the ideal candidate will develop and implement strategic initiatives to drive economic development, manage a talented team of professionals, and foster strong relationships with key stakeholders across various industries. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of success in economic development, strategy development and execution, exceptional communication skills, and a sense of urgency for making a difference in our community.

Position Title: Vice President of Business Development

Report To: President and CEO

Staff: 8

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Developing and implementing comprehensive business development strategies aligned with MCEDC’s strategic plan and the County’s Comprehensive Economic Strategy, ensuring that all initiatives are in sync with the organization’s long-term vision and mission.

• Leading efforts to attract and retain new businesses to the region, including targeting the following industry sectors: Life Sciences, Technology, National Nonprofits, Corporate Headquarters, Hospitality, and Real Estate. This includes developing targeted recruitment and expansion strategies based on industry trends and competitive landscapes.

• Overseeing and guiding the business development team to ensure the efficient and effective execution of projects, and fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment that encourages innovation and strategic thinking.

• Promoting Montgomery County as a prime location for business recruitment and retention at various events, meetings, and through direct engagement with local, state, and federal government officials, educational institutions, and private sector partners.

• Implementing a consultative selling approach by deeply understanding the needs of potential businesses and tailoring value propositions that align with their strategic goals.

• Maintaining relationships with site selection consultants and real estate brokers, ensuring that Montgomery County remains competitive and attractive to potential investors and businesses.

• Representing MCEDC at high-level meetings and strategic discussions when needed. Maintaining strong relationships with business leaders and stakeholders within key industry sectors to advance the organization’s economic development mission.

• Establishing and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, including public and private sector leaders, community organizations, investors, and educational institutions.

• Analyzing economic trends and providing insights and data-driven recommendations to the CEO, Board of Directors, and stakeholders. This includes preparing and delivering regular reports on economic development progress, challenges, and opportunities.

• Serving as a visionary leader and team builder, facilitating collaboration between all local, state, and federal officials that impact the community.

• Ensuring that the business community is actively engaged in key policy matters impacting economic development.

• Working closely with the leadership team to identify organizational priorities for both the near and long term, while also setting key performance indicators for the company.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate for the VP of Business Development role will have 7-10 years of experience in economic development or business leadership, including managing complex projects and initiatives. The candidate will have a proven track record of leading and developing high-performing teams, monitoring relevant data and trends to identify barriers, challenges, and opportunities for economic growth.

• Exceptional leadership and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to drive long-term visioning and strategic planning that aligns with MCEDC’s goals.

• Strong understanding of business development with a proven track record of successful business attraction, retention, and expansion projects.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders and present complex information in a clear and compelling manner.

• Proficiency in data analysis, technical writing, and Microsoft Office Suite, with the ability to analyze economic trends and prepare insightful reports.

• Ability to build and maintain relationships with public and private sector stakeholders, fostering a collaborative environment that supports economic growth and development.

• Adaptability to change and the ability to manage multiple projects under pressure, demonstrating innovation and creativity in problem-solving.

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s Degree (Master’s Degree preferred) in Economics, Finance, Business Administration or related field.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

– Excellent people skills, with an ability to partner with a dynamic leadership team.

– Embodies and aligns with MCEDC’s core values.

– An open, honest, methodical, and intellectual personality.

– Possesses personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and commitment to corporate mission.

– Flexible and able to multitask; can work within an ambiguous, fast-moving environment, while also driving toward clarity and solutions.

– Demonstrated resourcefulness in setting priorities and guiding investment in people and systems.

– Have presence of mind and have quick decision-making abilities.

– Strong management and team building skills, which motivates top talent and generates confidence and respect from all levels of the organization.

– Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

– Excellent interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.

– Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

– Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

– Strong supervisory and leadership skills.