Vice President at Virginia Economic Development Partnership

Virginia Economic Development Partnership OverviewOne of the wealthiest and most beautiful states in America, the Commonwealth of Virginia is fortunate to have exceptional talent, as well as distinctive geographic and infrastructure assets. Widely viewed as an attractive state for business, Virginia is home to a diverse array of leading private-sector firms, national labs, important military installations, and one of the most educated populations in the country.For more than two decades, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) has served as Virginia's state economic development authority and is regarded as among the best economic development organizations in the country. As a quasi-independent state authority governed by a board of directors that spans gubernatorial administrations, VEDP is a nonpartisan organization with stable leadership and nimble, creative, mission-focused operations. VEDP aspires to become America's most effective and impactful state economic development organization (EDO).VEDP offers a dynamic, collaborative, high-profile, fast-paced professional environment where a strategic, integrated, action-oriented approach is the standard.Position OverviewThe Vice President, Knowledge Work provides primary staff leadership for developing and implementing strategies to promote employment growth within the Business Services (including corporate headquarters), Software and Cybersecurity, Financial Services, and Aerospace and Defense Innovation industries in Virginia. Collectively, these industries represent some of the largest potential job growth opportunities for the Commonwealth.This position will be responsible for leading Virginia's economic development efforts for targeted sector growth through a whole-of-government approach in close collaboration with state, regional, and local partners. Key areas of responsibility include ecosystem building, strategy development, and implementation. The Vice President, Knowledge Work will work with the CEO and EVP to lead a cross-functional economic development team and the strategy for economic development in key sectors. The Vice President will have a combination of direct reports and indirect support from functional teams.The position offers the ability to take a key role in VEDP's Innovative Framework for Economic Growth by designing and developing sector strategies to take Virginia's economic development efforts to the next level and foster greater economic growth. The position offers the opportunity to lead projects across all areas of economic development while providing frequent and in-depth thought partnership and engagement with leaders across state government, regional and local EDOs, and the private sector.Core Responsibilities The Vice President, Knowledge Work has direct responsibility for five core areas:Strategy Development, Administration, and ImplementationLead development of sector strategies and actively manage the implementation of those strategies within whole-of-government approach, identifying course corrections as neededSet performance metrics with EVP/CEO and hold ultimate responsibility for achieving metricsIdentify opportunities to improve Virginia's competitivenessDevelop deep sector insights to enhance economic development activities within VEDP and across the ecosystemAnticipate trends and impact on the economy and businesses to inform project responseDevelop strong partnerships with local, regional, and state officials to drive initiative progressManage Knowledge Work team operations and provide leadership for other staff members within the teamServe as a collaborative member of VEDP's executive team, including active participation in leadership meetings to strengthen relationships and dialogue regarding sector expectationsEcosystem BuildingLead efforts to build a thriving ecosystem capable of attracting new talent and spurring business growthCultivate long-term relationships with appropriate stakeholders to gain buy-in for, and execution of, ecosystem and sector strategiesConvene key stakeholders and partners across industry network to drive growth in sector priority areasSpearhead management of strategic initiatives, working closely with stakeholders across all of governmentStrategic Existing Business EngagementCultivate relationships with Virginia's top employers to proactively identify expansion opportunities and strengthen sector insightsBe responsive to and elevate employer challenges to ensure retention and growthLead GenerationEnhance lead generation through leveraging industry relationships and identifying high potential companies for growthLeverage sector strategies to execute lead generation activities promoting sector growthProject SupportPlay a leading role to coordinate efforts for transformational projects (likely 2-3 per year) Provide solutions for issues that arise on other projects in VEDP's pipelineIdentify and incorporate lessons learned into project management processes Experience requiredAt least seven years of relevant experience, in positions of progressive responsibilityStrong managerial and leadership abilities including cross-functional leadership, decision-making, and communication skillsExcellent strategic analysis and problem-solving skillsExcellent communication (verbal and written) and interpersonal skillsManagement of internal direct reports and indirect reports with a track record of developing people and building successful teamsExcellent computer proficiency, particularly with spreadsheet (Excel) and presentation (PowerPoint) developmentDivision/department management, resource allocation, and project delegationSupport of organization-wide effortsAbility to multitaskAbility to work under time pressureExperience desiredAt least 10 years of experience at a global firm that operates in the knowledge sector (e.g Business Services, Software and Cybersecurity, Financial Services, and Aerospace and Defense Innovation) or in a knowledge sector practice at a top-tier professional services firm (e.g., site selection, strategy consulting), including in-depth understanding of location decision factors for knowledge sector firms. In lieu of experience working directly in a global firm or top-tier professional services firm, candidates should have at least 5 years of experience leading large economic development projects with knowledge sector companies and a significant professional network across the knowledge sector.Participation and experience with government agencies, industry organizations, technology councils, and incubatorsExperience in tech startup ecosystems and/or launching new business ventures with mature companiesPersonal attributesStrategic thinker who can synthesize large amounts of information quicklyExceptional attention to detailExcels under pressure, in a fast-paced, high-profile work environmentPassion for public sector impactEnjoys meeting needs of internal and external customersAbility to balance progress on medium- and long-term projects with short-term deliverablesPatience and collaborative instincts with stakeholdersImpeccable characterRelationship builder, motivator, and team playerPositive attitude and energeticInnovatorInquisitiveSound judgmentEducationBachelor's degree in social science (economics, public policy, or political science), mathematics, data analytics, business, or a related field Advanced degree in business (MBA), public policy (MPP), and/or other relevant fields preferred.CompensationSalary will be competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.References and Background InformationIt is VEDP's policy to complete an extensive background and reference check of candidates. Once 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 purpose of background investigation, which may include verification of education, credit check, criminal, and driving records. Should an offer be extended prior to the completion of these checks, the offer will be made contingent on the successful completion of the reference and background checks.Application ProcessBeing authorized to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. VEDP uses the E-Verify system and does not provide sponsorship.All candidates must apply through our website https://www.vedp.org/careers. Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter. A valid Virginia driver's license and ability to obtain a passport is required. Application deadline: November 8, 2024.VEDP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or against otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities. It is VEDP's intent that its employment and personnel policies and practices conform to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Applicants requiring more information or requiring assistance may contact VEDP Human Resources at 1-804-545-5634 or vedphr@VEDP.org. TDD 1-800-828-1120. PI195e20c0aedb-25660-35946970