GENERAL DEFINITION
The Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) and Workforce Manager is responsible for developing and implementing strategies that support the growth and retention of local businesses while ensuring a robust and skilled workforce. This role involves working closely with businesses, educational institutions, community organizations, and government agencies to foster economic development and address workforce needs.
ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIP
Serves under the general direction of the Director of Economic Development. Productive working relationships with other County departments, state, regional, and community agencies are vitally important. Supervision of various personnel as may be assigned.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & TYPICAL TASKS
Business Retention and Expansion (BRE):
1. Relationship Management:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with local businesses to understand their needs and challenges.
- Conduct regular visits and surveys to gather feedback and identify opportunities for support.
- Act as a liaison between businesses and local government or other relevant organizations.
2. Strategic Planning and Implementation:
- Develop and implement BRE strategies aimed at supporting the sustainability and growth of local businesses.
- Identify at-risk businesses and develop tailored intervention plans to prevent closures or relocations.
- Facilitate access to resources, incentives, and funding opportunities for businesses.
3. Program Management:
- Manage programs and initiatives that support business development and retention.
- Organize workshops, training sessions, and networking events for businesses.
- Monitor and report on the effectiveness of BRE initiatives
Workforce Development:
1. Needs Assessment and Planning:
- Assess current and future workforce needs in collaboration with businesses and industry stakeholders.
- Develop workforce development plans that align with local economic goals and industry demands.
2. Collaboration and Partnership:
- Work with educational institutions, training providers, and community organizations to develop and implement training programs.
- Foster partnerships that promote skills development, apprenticeship programs, and career pathways.
3. Program Implementation and Management:
- Oversee workforce development programs, ensuring they meet the needs of employers and job seekers.
- Track program outcomes and adjust strategies as needed to improve effectiveness.
4. Outreach and Engagement:
- Promote workforce development initiatives through outreach and engagement activities.
- Support job fairs, career expos, and other events that connect job seekers with employers.
ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Extensive knowledge of economic development principles and programs, including business recruitment, retention and expansion, grants, and product development.
- Experience with local, state, and federal economic development programs and incentives;
- Strong understanding of economic development principles and workforce development strategies.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to analyze data and market trends to inform strategic planning.
- Proficiency in project management and the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to develop creative solutions.
- Proactive and results-oriented.
- Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
- Strong leadership and team-building capabilities.
- Commitment to community and economic development.
- Ability to think creatively;
- Experience in time management, project management, record keeping, budgeting, and leadership skills;
- General knowledge of geographic information systems (GIS);
- Ability to read and comprehend plans and policies;
- Ability to communicate both orally and in writing;
- Strong presentation and persuasive skills;
- Ability to provide efficient and effective customer service;
- Ability to establish and maintain productive working relationships with businesses, local, state, & federal officials and the public;
- Ability to work as part of a team and to adapt work habits and procedures as necessary to accommodate the organization;
- Ability to synthesize or integrate analysis of data or information to discover facts or develop knowledge that can improve policies, procedures, or methodologies;
- Ability to utilize office software and email.
TRAINING, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Graduation from a four-year college or university with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, economic development, human resources, public administration or a closely related field. Minimum of five years experience in economic development, business management, workforce development, or a related field. Proven experience in building and maintaining business relationships and managing programs. Graduation and certification from professional programs in economic development desired.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS AND RELATED OBLIGATIONS
Occasional work evenings, weekends, holidays, or flexible/irregular schedules. This position typically requires a combination of office work and fieldwork, including regular visits to businesses and attendance at community events. Some travel may be required to meet with regional partners or attend conferences and training sessions. Travel regionally and occasionally outside of the Commonwealth of Virginia. A valid Virginia Motor Vehicle Operator's License required. Applicant must have and maintain a driving record acceptable to Franklin County and its insurance carrier(s).
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Must be able to sit for periods of time while operating a computer and telephone. Must be able to work outdoors performing site visits in challenging physical spaces and conditions; negotiate terrain with varying slopes and ground conditions; and occasionally work outside during inclement weather.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work is primarily done indoors. Occasional work is performed at indoor and outdoor facilities, events, and locations. Work may be performed in crowded or noisy public facilities.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE
Franklin County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Franklin County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $51,937.00 - $67,518.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
Work Location: In person