Director of Business Development & Government Relations

The Director of Business Development & Government Relations is a position with significant impact on the Chamber’s advocacy efforts and business relationships. This role is hired by and reports to the President. The Director is responsible for positioning and maintaining the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce as the premier business advocacy organization in the Lee’s Summit area.

This position will design, plan, organize, and direct the Chamber’s advocacy and policy development programs and related activities. Additionally, the Director will design and implement business and entrepreneurial programs that meet the needs of local businesses and drive member growth and retention.

Within the limits of the Chamber’s bylaws and policies established by the Board of Directors, the Director of Business Development & Government Relations shall:

• Design, plan, organize, and direct short- and long-term strategic goals and objectives for the Chamber’s advocacy and policy development programs, as approved by the Board of Directors.
• Provide leadership and in-depth analysis, including projected impacts, regarding the Chamber’s legislative agenda to the President, Board of Directors, Chamber members, and staff.
• In conjunction with the President, formulate and implement media policy and external communications related to Chamber positions to maximize visibility and impact.
• Establish and maintain relationships with key representatives at the city, county, state, and federal levels, and monitor proposed legislation to inform and support Chamber members.
• Attend City Council, Planning, Community & Economic Development Committee, and School Board meetings, as necessary, to represent the Chamber; travel to Jefferson City as needed on legislative matters.
• Provide staff support for the Legislative and Governmental Relations Committees, Business Development Council, Risk Takers Entrepreneurial Committee, and other assigned groups.
• Serve as the Chamber’s liaison to City Hall, strengthening relationships with City staff and elected officials while advocating for the interests of the local business community.
• Develop cooperative relationships with organizations involved in legislative efforts, including state and national chambers.
• Respond to business inquiries and provide guidance by connecting members with appropriate resources and support services.
• Oversee and implement workforce development programs and partnerships that support the Chamber’s goal of building a strong talent pipeline.
• Build and maintain relationships with community and regional partners engaged in workforce development.
• Oversee and grow the Chamber’s entrepreneurial initiatives and committees, increasing participation, funding, and program opportunities.
• Develop and deliver workshops and seminars that address the needs of the business community.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the President.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant work experience required
• Strong working knowledge of local, state, and national government structures and legislative processes
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with corporate, government, and community stakeholders
• Experience or demonstrated exposure to regional issues, education systems, and/or workforce development policy
• Proven ability to develop and execute strategic goals and effectively engage with community and political leaders
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and interpersonal effectiveness when working with community leaders, the public, and staff
• Experience in fundraising or securing financial support for community initiatives preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience in a chamber of commerce or workforce development environment preferred