Director International Economic Development Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Location: Raleigh, North Carolina  (hybrid/office as applicable)
Schedule: Monday and Friday remote, Tuesday-Thursday in office (based on business needs) 

About EDPNC 

At EDPNC, our mission is to improve the economic well-being and quality of life for all North Carolinians. In partnership with state, regional, local, and private sector leaders, we support North Carolina’s growth through business recruitment, existing industry support, international trade and export assistance, small business counseling, and tourism promotion.  As a public-private partnership serving on behalf of the State of North Carolina, EDPNC operates at the intersection of public service and economic strategy. Our work helps attract investment, support employers, strengthen communities, and position North Carolina as one of the best places in the country to live, work, and do business. 

We are a collaborative, mission-driven organization that values professionalism, initiative, responsiveness, and strong relationships. The work is fast-paced, meaningful, and highly collaborative, offering employees the opportunity to engage with leaders across business, government, and communities throughout the state. At EDPNC, team members are motivated by the opportunity to make a tangible impact while working alongside smart, dedicated people who care deeply about North Carolina’s future. 

About the Role 

Lead the organization’s International Trade team, which provides international trade and export assistance programs to existing North Carolina businesses. Liaise with Federal government partners to secure grant funding in support of various export assistance initiatives. Ensure high quality and high value service is provided to all supported companies. Manage budget, ensure grant compliance, and supervise team of trade professionals. 

What You’ll Do 

• Develop and implement strategies to assist small- and mid-sized firms in entering new markets and growing their international sales.  
• Manage the organization’s contracts with overseas representatives for export promotion services. Coordinate with Director of Business Development to maximize output and minimize budget impact. 
• Drive collaboration among the team and outside partners to increase awareness and use of the team’s export assistance services by North Carolina businesses. 
• Serve as a liaison with the North Carolina District Export Council, US Commercial Service, North Carolina Small Business & Technology Development Centers, North Carolina Department of Agriculture International Marketing department and other related partner organizations serving the same constituency of exporters in the state. 
• Manage division budget including planning, strategy and forecasting. 
• Oversee federal grants, including the STEP grant, ensuring effective, efficient and compliant use of those dollars. 
• Supervise assigned staff, providing leadership and support, and assisting in on-going training and development. Responsibilities include employee selection, performance management, performance evaluations, job descriptions, etc., and ensuring that EDPNC policies and procedures are followed. Consult Human Resources as appropriate. 
• Other duties as the supervisor deem necessary. 
• Supervisory responsibility: International Trade Managers (4), Export Accelerator Program Director (1), STEP Grant Manager (1) and international contractors/vendors. 

Who Should Apply 

Education and Experience Requirements 

• Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in related fields such as business, marketing, economics, finance, public policy, or related field. 
• Minimum 7 years of experience in international trade, preferably involving international sales, export assistance, or trade compliance; similar experience in sales, or international business, is also substitutable 
• 2+ years of experience managing multiple direct reports preferred or demonstrated leadership and readiness for management position. 

Key Competencies 

• Customer service-focused attitude and behavior 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including presentations to outside audiences 
• Ability to interface professionally with senior-level business and government executives 
• Leadership, strategic vision and development, and ability to generate buy-in 
• Focus on developing team cohesion and accountability for results 
• Ability to collaborate with multiple stakeholders, both internal and external to the organization 

Licenses and Knowledge Requirements 

• Valid driver’s licenses and passport required 
• Knowledge of international business trends and geopolitical issues that impact exports 

We Invest in Our People—Professionally and Personally.  

At EDPNC, our benefits are designed to support your career, well-being, and life outside of work.  

• Competitive compensation and performance incentives that reward impact and results  
• Hybrid work schedule that supports flexibility, and balance  
• Generous time off, including 4 weeks of PTO, 9 paid holidays, 3 sick and wellness days, and 3 flex holidays  
• 401(k) with a 5% employer match after six months to help you build long-term financial security  
• Paid parental leave, including 8 weeks of maternity leave and 4 weeks of paternal leave, because family matters  
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, with HSA and FSA options  
• Company paid short- and long-term disability coverage as well as 50K life insurance for added peace of mind  
• Employee Assistance Program that covers your entire household’s wellbeing  
• Voluntary benefit options such as critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity, life insurance and pet insurance  
• Corporate amenities such as paid parking, gym access and complimentary snacks 
• Family Forward Certified, reflecting our commitment to family-friendly workplace practices 

Apply Now 

Join us in shaping North Carolina’s economic future!