The Business Development Specialist at BWI is essential for managing our Business Center, enhancing partnerships, and driving new initiatives in this sector. This role demands active engagement with the community to address their needs and develop solutions. Effective communication, through personal, written, and digital means, is essential to grow the BWI Business Ecosystem. Responsibilities include providing tailored solutions, handling inquiries, organizing, planning hiring events, recruiting new employees, engaging with potential BWI employees, managing data, maintaining center operations, preparing reports, and representing AAWDC at BWI events. Candidates should be sociable, detail-oriented, adept in diverse communication methods, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

· Business Center Management and Operations : Oversee and maintain the operations of the BWI Business Center to ensure smooth functioning. This includes managing the computer area and staffing the office during designated times.

· Business Development and Partnerships : Drive new initiatives, enhance partnerships within the business sector, and manage data related to business development activities. Prepare and communicate reports on outcomes and activities to grow the BWI Business Ecosystem.

· Community Engagement and Outreach : Actively engage with the community and the BWI Business Community to identify needs, develop solutions, and perform outreach efforts. This involves organizing and attending recruitment events, directly engaging with potential employees, and representing AAWDC at BWI community events.

· Client and Partner Relations : Provide tailored solutions to clients or partners, handle inquiries related to the business center and its activities and establish and maintain positive relationships with business representatives.

· Communication and Representation : Communicate effectively through various means including personal, written, telephonic, and digital channels. This includes correspondence with business representatives, job seekers, and the public, as well as representing AAWDC at BWI events.

· Data Management and Administrative Duties : Enter and maintain accurate data into database software, and perform other duties as assigned, ensuring high levels of organizational and detail-oriented behavior.

· Multi-tasking and Team Support : Manage multiple projects simultaneously with strong organizational skills, exhibit sociable and detail-oriented behavior, and support the team and organization's goals. Perform other duties as assigned by the Director or VP Apprenticeship, Business, and Industry.

· Educational and Professional Background : Preferred bachelor’s degree in business administration, Marketing, Communications, or related fields. Valued experiences include business development, community engagement, and managing business operations.

· Communication and Relationship Management : Outstanding communication skills across written, oral, and digital platforms, with a proven ability to interact effectively with diverse groups. Demonstrated capability in fostering partnerships, maintaining client relationships, and developing new business strategies.

· Engagement and Outreach : Proven track record in community engagement, executing outreach programs, and directly engaging with potential stakeholders to develop community solutions and enhance recruitment efforts.

· Organizational Skills and Initiative : Strong organizational and multitasking abilities required to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment. Must demonstrate innovative thinking and problem-solving skills, with a proactive approach to driving initiatives and strategies.

· Data Management and Event Organization : Proficiency in data management and use of database software, with a focus on accuracy in data handling and reporting. Experience in organizing and participating in recruitment events and professional gatherings.

· Professionalism and Technological Savvy : Ability to represent the organization professionally across various platforms and events. Competency in using modern technological tools, office software, and communication systems.

· Personal Competencies and Availability : Sociable, detail-oriented, and capable of working effectively both independently and in a team. Required availability for office staffing during designated times and active participation in community and business events, along with the readiness to undertake additional duties as needed.

POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK

This is a full-time position. Standard office hours are Monday – Friday 8:30 – 5:00. with flexibility to fulfill 35 hours per week. This role may require long hours occasionally.

TRAVEL

This role requires some travel within the local community and occasionally out of state.