Location: Richland,SC, USA
CLASS TITLE: MANAGER OF EXISTING BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF CLASS
This class serves as an information broker, resource connector, and primary point of contact for Existing Business and Industry within Richland County. This position is located within the Richland County Office of Economic Development. The primary goal of this position is to foster a more resilient, innovative, and dynamic base of existing business in the County. Primary duties include, but are not limited to: managing all aspects of the Richland County Existing Business Industry Program; implementing and managing a visitation program to gain a better understanding of Richland County existing businesses' needs and potential opportunities; creating a program of work to respond appropriately to business needs; co-developing, planning and organizing appreciation events; creating, managing and maintaining business directories, surveys and databases; and identifying and assisting with expansion opportunities of local companies. This class works within broad policy and organizational guidelines and does independent planning and implementation, reporting progress of major activities through periodic meetings with management.
ESSENTIAL TASKS - The tasks listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional tasks related to the type of work of the class as necessary.
* Manages all aspects of the Existing Business Industry Program. Makes recommendations for program enhancements or changes that will streamline processes, provide opportunities to gather better/more accurate information, and/or other recommendations that will ensure the success and integrity of the program.
* Manages the Existing Business Industry Visitation Program including, but not limited to: engaging client companies to create a visitation opportunity; researching client company and understanding key products or services prior to attending visitation meetings; collecting data from the company in a professional and knowledgeable manner and utilizing a cloud-based CRM system for tracking; and following-up in a timely manner with accurate information. Serves as a resource connector for existing industry to internal County departments and external relevant resources. Remains abreast of relevant developments in state and local policy that may impact business and serves as a subject matter expert on such developments to internal and external audiences.
* With support from internal staff, organizes reoccurring and valuable events throughout the County that engage and support existing industries such as networking events, lunch and learns, industry council events, and groundbreakings/ribbon cuttings. With the assistance of the Marketing Manager, collaborates on the development of marketing collateral, as well as promotional and media-related content for various needs, and continues to elevate the Bridge 4 Business brand.
* Monitors existing industry for signs of possible plant closings, reductions or expansions and reports findings internally to management and project management team for action. Monitors and tracks existing industry for relevant personnel changes.
* Tracks all applicable industry for compliance and monitors performance of all negotiated incentives, including grants. Serves as a primary point of contact for industry regarding incentive inquiries, applications and issues.
* Engages with internal and external stakeholders including but not limited to workforce development entities, educational providers, and support entities serving as a liaison for County industry.
Requirements
Qualifications (Required):
* Minimum of 3 years of demonstrated professional experience, ideally in an economic development or related field.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Public speaking experience beneficial.
* Proven organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to prioritize under limited direction.
* Driven by dedication to deliver quality work.
* Capable of simultaneously focusing on big-picture goals and paying attention to details.
* Self-starter willing to take initiative but also follow direction.
* Proficient in use of Microsoft Office, cloud-based CRM (Salesforce or other), video-conferencing software, Google Suite, Adobe Acrobat.
* Team player able to work harmoniously and positively, interacting with a range of stakeholders.
* Ability to travel within Richland County, and statewide throughout South Carolina. Intermittent domestic travel may be required.
* Valid South Carolina driver's license.
* Bachelor's degree.
Physical Efforts
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
* Regular physical activity to include walking, bending, stooping, reaching, standing and prolonged sitting.
* Ability to use phone and computer systems, copier, and other office equipment.
* Must be able to occasionally move and lift up to 25 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
Compensation Minimum: $62,509.27