What are the responsibilities and job description for the Business Development Manager position at Southern Oregon Regional Economic Development,...?
Job Overview
The Business Development Manager plays a vital role in advancing SOREDI’s mission to champion economic success in Southern Oregon. This position is responsible for leading business outreach efforts, cultivating strong relationships with local employers and partners, and supporting business while communicating clearly and concisely, and being sensitive to varying political opinions.
** Note: This position is based in Grants Pass and will primarily focus on serving SOREDI’s members and business community in Josephine County, including the City of Grants Pass. However, responsibilities may extend throughout the broader SOREDI service region as needed. **
Role and Responsibilities
All SOREDI Staff:
- Represent SOREDI’s vision, mission, and strategic initiatives to local governments, business communities, and regional stakeholders.
- Coordinate schedules with Business Oregon and community partners to support collaborative outreach, sector engagement, and follow-up activities.
- Identify and refer business development and finance-related leads to SOREDI.
- Develop and implement strategies to increase SOREDI membership and strengthen member retention
- Maintain timely, accurate data in alignment with SOREDI policies.
- Contribute to the planning and execution of SOREDI initiatives and special projects.
- Assist in the creation and distribution of promotional materials as needed.
- Support and/or lead additional projects as assigned.
- Perform other duties as required.
The Business Development Manager will:
- Provide businesses with resources available from SOREDI’s program set as well as tools and resources made available by other economic development partners.
- Design and execute a proactive business outreach strategy focused on traded-sector businesses along with startups, small businesses, and other locally focused enterprises.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with businesses, local governments, and community partners to identify needs, concerns, and growth opportunities.
- Support the Executive Director with key initiatives related to business recruitment, retention, and expansion.
- Record all business outreach activities and outcomes in SOREDI’s client management system.
- Represent SOREDI on relevant regional committees, as determined with the Executive Director.
- Promote SOREDI membership and communicate its value to private sector partners.
- Promote economic growth in the region through business development activities focused outreach programs and special projects.
- Participate actively in SOREDI-hosted events, fundraisers, and business engagement initiatives.
- Implement strategies to increase membership and enhance member value
- Attend internal team and board meetings regularly.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications and Education Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent college degree and/or demonstrated experience in an economic or business development field.
- At least 2 years of relevant experience in business development, economic development, or a related field.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Proven ability to listen actively, think critically, and negotiate effectively.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail and time management.
- Demonstrated professionalism and ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
Preferred Attributes:
- Consistent attendance, with the ability to travel within the region as needed.
- Specialized training in economic development (e.g. IEDC, CEcD).
- Understanding of economic development incentives, financing tools and grants.
- Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license.
- Self-motivated, flexible, and able to adapt quickly to shifting priorities.
- Capable of working independently under time constraints.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across sectors.
- Committed to the broader mission and values of SOREDI and regional prosperity.
Additional Notes:
SOREDI offers the following benefits for part-time employees:
- Sick leave
- Employer-paid life and disability insurance
Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour
Expected hours: 20.0 per week
Benefits:
- Disability insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Life insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $25 - $30