Director, Business Development WVU Innovation Corporation

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The Director of Business Development is responsible for leading and advancing comprehensive business development strategies that drive community growth, foster business expansion, and support workforce development within the WVU Innovation Corporation. This role emphasizes building collaborative partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations to promote sustainable economic growth and support the health system’s mission. The Director will provide leadership and management services to develop and implement initiatives that attract new businesses, retain existing enterprises, and enhance the community's economic vitality, while ensuring alignment with the organization’s strategic goals.

The role requires significant leadership, mediation, political, and negotiation skills. The Director will serve as a representative for the WVU Innovation Corporation in economic development and outreach initiatives, aligning efforts with the institution’s vision. The Director will lead projects or initiatives that require collaboration with Senior Business Managers, Department Directors, and Senior Leadership to ensure the organization’s growth and success.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION, CERTIFICATION, AND/OR LICENSURE:

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field.

Five (5) years’ experience in economic or community development, business planning, or related fields.

EXPERIENCE:

1. Experience in a University setting, specifically related to research and grant-writing processes

2. Preferred candidate has experience networking with professionals in a life science or bio-tech setting; strong verbal & written communication skills

3. Establishing and executing a budget; strong familiarity with project management methodologies

CORE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The statements described here are intended to describe the general nature of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not intended to be constructed as an all-inclusive list of all responsibilities and duties. Other duties may be assigned.

1. Works with leadership teams and external partners to develop and implement business development initiatives, enhance community partnerships, and drive job creation.

2. Serves as a representative of the WVU Innovation Corporation on economic development and community engagement teams.

3. Supports WVU Innovation Corporation Leadership team in achieving annual and long-term strategic goals.

4. Manages day-to-day operations of the Business Development Department including hiring, evaluations, and budgeting.

5. Develops and fosters effective collaboration between internal departments and external stakeholders to promote integrated economic growth.

6. Facilitates the development and expansion of outreach services and business opportunities, leveraging data and stakeholder input.

7. Communicates key information to stakeholders regarding market trends, economic conditions, and community needs.

8. Plans, organizes, and implements work assignments and projects. Promotes a harmonious, collegial environment.

9. Leads and supports committees and task forces related to economic development and community impact.

10. Serves as the WVU Innovation Corporation representative at conferences and other events at the request of leadership.

11. Research and gain a broad understanding of existing workforce development programs within WV and assist leadership to develop strategies that provide opportunity for participation or collaboration. Performs other related duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 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.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. Cognizant of environmental factors and maintains a safe and inclusive work environment.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

1. Ability to adapt to the changing needs of the organization.

2. Stay abreast of current industry trends and evol