Business Development Representative
The Business Development Representative is a key educational and relationship-building role within the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) of Elkhart County. The position’s primary focus is to serve as an ambassador, educating the community and potential investors on the EDC’s capabilities while cultivating long-term, strategic partnerships.
Position Description
Core Mission: Education & Relationship Management
The ideal candidate acts as a bridge between the EDC and the business community, focusing on two main pillars:
- Capabilities Education
Actively researching and identifying potential donors to educate them on how the EDC’s initiatives drive regional growth. - Relationship Cultivation
Developing and maintaining deep connections with current investors and new prospects through personalized communication and consistent engagement.
Principal Responsibilities
- Strategic Planning
Create and implement yearly plans focused on increasing the EDC’s client base and donor engagement. - Outreach & Advocacy
Initiate business introductions, schedule meetings, and lead presentations to share the EDC’s mission and value proposition. - Personalized Engagement
- Craft unique, quarterly investment letters and personal thank-you notes to foster a sense of community.
- Prepare comprehensive investor packets and manage personalized payment reminders.
- Collaborative Networking
Work closely with the BR&E Manager and Training Class Manager to facilitate connections across diverse industries. - Data Stewardship
Maintain accurate records in Salesforce (CRM) to track all meetings, tasks, and opportunities, ensuring seamless relationship management. - High-Touch Service
Respond to all inquiries within 24 hours and host investor functions that strengthen the EDC’s network.
Qualifications & Traits
- Education
A 4-year accredited college business degree is preferred. - Experience
Sales experience and a background working with Elkhart County businesses are highly desirable. - Communication Mastery
Exceptional professional verbal and written abilities are required to facilitate meetings and write compelling proposals, grant requests, and letters of intent. - Technical Proficiency
Skilled in Office 365, Salesforce, OneDrive, and Google Suites. - Professionalism
Must maintain a cordial, professional disposition under stress and uphold strict confidentiality for all client and business information. - Mobility
A valid Indiana Driver’s License and personal vehicle are required for off-site assignments.
