Vice President of Business Development - Waco, TX

Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce
Job Title: Vice President of Business Development Reports to: Executive Vice President
Position Type: Full-time, Executive Level, Exempt

Job Overview:
The Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce (GWCC) is actively seeking a dynamic, results-driven 
individual to join its award-winning economic development team and serve as the Vice President of 
Business Development within the Economic Development Department. This position reports to the 
Executive Vice President (EVP) and works directly with the EVP in developing and executing 
strategies that meet the GWCC’s goals for high impact job creation, capital investment, and quality 
business growth for the Greater Waco region.

The VP of Business Development is responsible for identifying and generating new business 
attraction and relocation opportunities, qualifying prospects, and collaborating with the Economic 
Development (ED) team to create tailored business proposals that drive new growth opportunities in 
Greater Waco.

This role involves both international and domestic business development initiatives aimed at 
strengthening Greater Waco’s status as a premier destination for investment, business expansion, 
and job creation. The Vice President will build strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, 
organizations, and collaborate with local, state, and national organizations to attract and retain 
businesses across targeted industries. Domestic and international travel will be required with this 
position.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Strategy Implementation:
•  In coordination with EVP, develop and execute a comprehensive business recruitment strategy 
focused on both domestic and international business growth in targeted industry sectors.
•  Identify emerging sectors, market trends, and potential areas of growth for the Greater Waco 
region.
•  Align business development efforts with regional economic priorities and the GWCC’s overall 
mission and goals.
•  Collaborate with EVP to establish individual/team goals related to business development to 
ensure performance and strategic outcomes.

2. Business Attraction & Expansion:
•  Manage efforts to attract new businesses to the region in targeted and emerging industry sectors 
that leverage and capitalize upon Greater Waco’s unique advantages.
•  Build upon relationships with local, state, and federal partners to facilitate business
expansions and attraction.

•  Create, foster and enhance relationships with site selectors, corporate executives, and 
development professionals to present Greater Waco as a competitive location and community of choice 
for domestic and international investment.
•  Collaborate with the EVP and ED team in the development of incentive packages,
financing options, and other resources to support business growth and relocation.
•  Collaborate with the ED team to create an efficient process, including inquiry
responses, proposal development, site tours, project management, and deal closure.
•  Collaborate and contribute to the planning, execution and tracking of business development 
activities, including outbound events and inbound “FAM” tours.

3. International Business Development:
•  Build upon existing international business relationships and identify foreign direct investment 
opportunities that meet the GWCC’s strategic goals for jobs, investment and quality business growth 
for the region.
•  Build relationships with foreign consulates, trade organizations, and multinational companies to 
promote Greater Waco as an ideal business destination.
•  Participate in international trade missions, conferences, and networking events to expand 
Greater Waco’s global footprint.
•  Develop strategies to attract international companies to establish operations or partnerships 
within the region.

4. Business Retention and Workforce Development:
•  Work closely with the Economic Development Director to gather a deep understanding of the 
existing local businesses of Greater Waco and identify opportunities for connectivity and 
collaboration to support business development and retention initiatives.

5. Research & Data Analysis and Reporting:
•   Support business intelligence efforts by researching, collecting, and analyzing data to enhance 
lead generation, prospecting, and location proposals, as well as conducting comparative location 
analysis of peer and best-in-class markets, particularly those with similar industry clusters.
•  Provide regular reports, presentations and/or updates on economic development activities to the 
GWCC’s board, members, and stakeholders.

6. Budgeting & Resource Management:
•  Collaborate with EVP to develop and manage the annual business development budget to align with 
the department’s and GWCC’s goals and objectives.
•  Secure funding and resources through grants, partnerships, and sponsorships as needed to support 
economic development initiatives.

Qualifications:
•  Education: A bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Economics, Public Policy, or 
a related field is required.

•  Experience: A minimum of 10 years of experience in economic development, business attraction, 
business development, international trade, and/or a related field with at least 5 years in a 
leadership role.

Skills & Knowledge:
•  Must be able to work with confidential matters.
•  Proven track record in driving business development and investment attraction in both domestic 
and international markets.
•  Strong understanding of economic development principles, incentive programs, and workforce 
development strategies.
•  Experience in leading cross-functional teams and working with various stakeholders, including 
government, business leaders, and community organizations.
•  Knowledge of international trade regulations, global markets, and foreign direct investment 
strategies.
•  Exceptional written, communication and presentation skills are essential.
•  Ability to effectively negotiate.
•  Strong analytical abilities and experience with market research and data-driven decision- 
making.
•  Familiarity with the Greater Waco region’s economic landscape, industries, and growth potential 
is a plus.

Competencies:
Leadership & Vision: Ability to inspire, lead, and influence stakeholders to drive economic growth.
Innovative/Strategic Thinking: Skilled in implementing long-term plans and adapting to changing 
business environments.
Relationship Building: Proficient in building and maintaining strategic relationships with key
stakeholders across multiple sectors.
Results-Oriented: Demonstrated ability to meet or exceed goals and drive tangible economic results.
Team-Oriented: Collaborative team player, able to thrive in a fast-paced, competitive environment.

Compensation:
Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus a comprehensive benefits package.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter outlining their
qualifications and interest in the position to kcollins@wacochamber.com