The Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce is a bold, dynamic organization that serves the needs of businesses, non-profits, and government agencies of all sizes.  Established in 1906, the Chamber has been an integral part of the Durham community for more than 100 years.  Through leadership and collaboration, the Chamber engages the Greater Durham business community, elected officials, and regional partners in proactive business initiatives that foster Durham’s innovative business environment and creates opportunities for Durham and its residents to thrive and grow.

The Vice President of Economic Development for the Durham Chamber is a core member of the organization and will be responsible for Durham’s economic development efforts and activities on behalf of the county’s private sector community, as well as collaborate with city, county, regional, and state economic development officials to further Durham’s economic growth. This role will be a top promoter of Durham, its economic climate, and its reputation as a diverse, innovative, collaborative, and inclusive business environment.

Accountabilities Include:

• Host prospect tours and visits for site selection firms, consultants, developers, and investors to introduce them to the culture of Durham and the vibrancy of the business community.
• Design and prepare business proposals and responses to prospect inquiries, Requests for Information and Requests for Proposals.
• Provide incentive analysis and follow up on coordination of incentives with local and state agencies on behalf of prospects.
• Create professional marketing and promotional materials (print, social media, video, digital media content) specifically tailored for targeted markets (national and international) and businesses.
• Establish strong communication and actively engage with site selection firms, company executives, business owners, brokers, and public officials to encourage companies to locate or expand in the region.
• Serve as the primary resource for real estate brokers and developers.
• Understand the overall Research Triangle Region and state market and Durham’s role within these markets; identify attributes specific to Durham.
• Identify the needs of employers in specific economic clusters and advise of the local labor force preparedness.
• Advocate for the private sector perspectives on policies that drive development and growth in Durham County.
• Create strategic investment funds and groups to support growing Durham’s diverse economy.
• Create and maintain a robust and informative website that specifically addresses Durham’s economic development efforts, successes, programs, services, information, and data.
• Collaborate with the city/county on appropriate development of publicly owned land.
• Develop and maintain a repository of information on labor market, socio-economic data, local business data, employer lists, utility availability, analysis on “cost of doing business” in the area, and community impact of new investment and growth.
• Engage with local universities, Durham Technical Community College, and Durham Public Schools to best prepare graduating students to compete for jobs with new and expanding businesses.

Requirements:

• High level of professionalism to interact with C-level executives, company representatives, elected officials, peers, and the public.
• Highly motivated self-starter can work well both independently and within a team environment.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and time management skills to be able to handle multiple projects and priorities.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills as well as strong presentation skills.
• Excellent understanding of the needs of business and deal-making skills to discern prospect needs and make appropriate decisions regarding information submitted, key introductions to be made, etc.
• Understanding of how to segment and penetrate markets, whether used to increase organizational membership and investment or identify and engage existing businesses representing substantial growth potential.
• Display a positive attitude and be amicable, even-tempered, and upbeat with community members, prospects, and co-workers.
• Maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion and judgement in dealing with sensitive and confidential information.
• Knowledge of Durham County and the Research Triangle region preferred.
• Creative and innovative when solving problems and generating ideas.
• High energy and flexibility to support the demands of meetings and site visits. Requirements may include some evenings and extended hours.
• Ten or more years in economic development, business development, real estate development, or similar work.
• A thorough knowledge and understanding of economic development practices and principles.
• Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree or CEcD certification preferred. Combination of education and experience may be substituted when competency in the position is demonstrated.

Cover letters and resumes should be submitted to jobs@durhamchamber.org immediately. This position will be open until filled.