ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

Greater St. Louis, Inc. (GSL) is an economic development organization and the center point of civic infrastructure that serves the 15-county, bi-state St. Louis metropolitan area with a population of approximately 2.8 million people.  GSL has a forward-looking vision for St. Louis’ economic future and makes inclusive growth and prosperity a leading long-term priority for the metropolitan area.  GSL drives its priorities through the full diversity of St. Louis’ business leaders, a cohesive structure, a professional staff and a unified voice.

THE POSITION

Greater St. Louis, Inc. is seeking a dynamic leader passionate about accelerating economic growth and opportunity through business recruitment throughout the 15-county St. Louis region.

Are you a results-oriented professional who thrives on building partnerships and championing your community? You may be a fit for our Senior Director of Business Growth.

In this role, this individual will…

• Establish, enhance, and execute a business recruitment program that aligns with the organization’s priorities through strategic planning efforts.
• Proactively pursue firms in target industries (Aerospace & Defense, Life Sciences, Ag Innovation, Financial Services, Advanced Manufacturing, and Geospatial), nationally and internationally.
• Develop, plan, and execute out-of-market corporate recruitment and site selector interface trips.
• Operate as part of a high-performing, high-achieving, goal-focused team.
• Work in tandem with team members responsible for real estate and project management to ensure each RFP response is given the care and attention required to compete and win, including appropriate incentives.
• Manage and maintain prospect data; design and implement new methods of screening and qualifying projects.
• Analyze market trends and conditions to include emerging market segments that will impact targeted business development industries.

SKILLS AND TRAITS

• A proven track record of accomplishment in business development.
• Considerable knowledge and experience with business development and marketing techniques.
• A history of being resourceful and creative when proactively creating opportunities.
• A self-starter who is self-sufficient with a proven track record of getting things done.
• High personal and professional honesty, integrity, and executive presence.
• Excellent verbal, written, analytical, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• A leader able to work effectively within the Business Development Team and with others throughout the organization and community.
• Ability to establish working relationships with national and local partners to promote the St. Louis region.
• Comfortable with technology; demonstrates proficiency with standard business tools (e.g., Microsoft Office 365, CRM platforms, presentation software) and the ability to quickly adopt and leverage new systems as needed.
• Critical thinking skills with the ability to analyze projects, situations, or statements and determine their validity.
• Willingness to be flexible, adaptable, and proactive in a rapidly changing environment.

EXPERIENCE

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is required in Economic Development, Business, Accounting, Law, Public Administration, or a closely related field.

Certification – Certified Economic Developer credential is desirable.

Five or more years of experience in economic development, business development, marketing, or related

REFERENCES AND BACKGROUND CHECK

Candidates will be checked extensively for background and references.  Once a strong mutual interest has been established, candidates are asked to provide a list of references that should include, but not be limited to, a supervisor, a peer, a development client, and a subordinate, as applicable.  Candidates will be asked to sign an authorization to release information for the background investigation, which will include education, social media background, credit check, criminal records, and driving records.  Should an offer be extended before the completion of these checks, the offer will be made contingent.

Greater St. Louis, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer that extends equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, with regard to all terms and conditions of employment. Greater St. Louis, Inc. is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities to ensure equal hiring and employment opportunities.