Ecosystem Development Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Business Manager, Software/Cybersecurity The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is seeking a specialized or experienced business development professional to execute lead generation and pipeline development strategies for the Software and Cybersecurity industries. The Business Manager will promote Virginia to targeted corporate executives as the preferred location for new and expanding business facilities.

This individual will work within the Knowledge Work team, which is responsible for lead generation and ecosystem development in the Aerospace & Defense Innovation, Business Services, Cybersecurity, Financial Services, and Software industries, which represent some of the Commonwealth's largest potential job growth opportunities.

Responsibilities : Develop and execute VEDP's lead generation programs to target companies, key multipliers, and commercial real estate brokers Contribute to VEDP's annual lead generation calendar by recommending lead generation activities for assigned industries Lead cold and warm outreach to secure key meetings with target accounts Identify new projects in market through conducting lead generation campaigns, attending call trips, trade shows and events, and developing client relationships Build and maintain a business development pipeline of software and cybersecurity opportunities and nurture leads toward successful handoff to the Business Investment team Consistently monitor pipeline status of potential projects and provide progress summaries as needed Prepare pitch decks, briefings, and marketing presentations Identify and build strong working relationships across industry stakeholders, including business decision makers, trade associations, government organizations, affiliated economic development allies, higher education institutions, and other key stakeholders Communicate insights from industry engagements to inform industry lead generation and ecosystem development strategy Maintain strong relationships with VEDP's economic development partners, clients, and other stakeholders Skills : Demonstrated ability to operate in a team environment and leverage partners in public and private sectors, including higher education partners, and local and regional economic development partners Skilled in initiating and nurturing relationships through cold outreach Excellent written and verbal communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills Strong organizational skills and ability to plan and successfully manage multiple tasks Work well under pressure and within tight deadlines Make decisions based on logical analysis and sound judgement Proficiency in MS Office Suite required Experience with Salesforce is a plus Strong relationship management skills and ability to quickly develop trusting working relationships Demonstrated ability to sell and develop deals, while providing client support Ability to telecommute and discipline to work independently from a home office Frequent in-state and out-of-state travel required Experience: At least five years of business development, marketing, sales, or economic development experience in a fast-paced, professional setting; OR at least five years of experience working in or supporting clients in the software or cybersecurity fields, preferably in a role that emphasizes interpersonal interactions Marketing and project management experience in a local or regional economic development office is preferred Participation and experience with government agencies and industry trade organizations is a plus Comprehensive knowledge and demonstrated experience in the principles and practices of economic development, sales, business development, and lead generation Valid Virginia's driver's license and ability to obtain a passport required Being 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 résumé and a cover letter. Salary minimum: $90,000. Application deadline: April 18, 2025. 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.