Vice President, External Affairs

Company: Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Location: Richmond
Posted on: March 20, 2025

Job Description:

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) seeks a Vice President of External Affairs to support economic development in the Commonwealth through (i) leadership and strategy, (ii) policy development and legislative engagement, and (iii) partner engagement. This role is integral to achieving the goals outlined in the Strategic Plan for Economic Development of the Commonwealth of Virginia and supporting biennial updates to the plan in collaboration with local, regional, and state partners.--ResponsibilitiesLead VEDP's policy development, legislative engagement and partner engagement through strategic planning and tactical implementation. Key areas of responsibility include, but are not limited to:Leadership and StrategyLead the External Affairs Division, including training and developing staff membersDevelop and execute a strategy for policy development, legislative, and stakeholder engagement aligned with the Strategic Plan for Economic Development of the CommonwealthCollaborate across divisions and engage with VEDP's Board of Directors to shape legislative and partner engagement strategy for the organizationFacilitate engagement between VEDP leadership and staff and external stakeholdersDevelop clear, strategic messaging on policy and budget priorities, and prepare VEDP leadership and staff for external engagementsManage coordination with the executive and legislative branches and other agencies--Policy Development and Legislative EngagementDevelop and lead VEDP's annual legislative agenda, ensuring timely coordination with VEDP leadership and adherence to General Assembly and administration deadlinesAnalyze, prioritize, and track legislation and budget amendments impacting economic developmentFacilitate VEDP's engagement with key stakeholders, including General Assembly members, their staff, and key committee personnelPlan and oversee legislative regional toursCoordinate VEDP's legislative and budget insights with the Governor's Administration, including preparation of eLAS, FIS, and EBR documentsDevelop presentations, talking points, and policy papers for VEDPRepresent VEDP before legislative committees, regulators, and other speaking engagementsMaintain and strengthen relationships with Virginia's Congressional Delegation and their staff, supporting economic development initiatives and ensuring senior leadership engagement on key projectsProvide strategic insights to VEDP Project Review and Credit Committee (PRACC) and coordinate meetings of the Major Employment and Investment (MEI) Project Approval CommissionPartner engagementOversee and coordinate VEDP's engagement with external stakeholders including local and regional partners, Virginia Economic Developer's Association (VEDA), Virginia Chamber, Virginia Association of Counties (VACo), and Virginia Municipal League (VML), among others, ensuring regular and strategic outreachWork with VEDP's Marketing and Communications Division to develop partner communications and engagement strategies including written updates and conference presentationsOrganize meetings and regional tours for VEDP leadership and administration officials to enhance partnerships and regional awarenessCultivate relationships with local and regional economic development practitioners, project delivery partners, policy stakeholders, and other relevant leaders in the CommonwealthRepresent VEDP at external events and functions relevant to its missionKnowledge and Experience10+ years of relevant experience, including at least five years in policy development, legislative affairs, and/ or partner engagement (preferably in economic development)In-depth knowledge of Virginia's legislative process, with--bi-partisan and bicameral relationships with members of the General Assembly, staff, and other relevant stakeholdersProven strategic planning and execution experienceLeadership and staff development experienceProject and event management expertiseDemonstrated ability to manage stakeholders with differing (sometimes conflicting) interestsPersonal AttributesStrategic thinker and results-driven implementerExceptional communicator, adaptable to various audiencesStrong work ethic and attention to detail, with flexibility to work outside standard hours when needed --Comfortable operating in fluid, high-visibility environments with executive leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholdersCollaborative team playerCreative problem solver who thrives under pressureNatural relationship builder with strong interpersonal skillsApolitical but diplomatic and politically savvy--Education--Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., business, economics, marketing, government, public policy). Graduate degree preferred.Compensation--Salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.--References and Background Information--It is VEDP's policy to complete an extensive background and reference check of candidates. Once strong mutual interest has been established, candidates are asked to provide a list of references that should include, but not be limited to, a supervisor, a peer, a development client and a subordinate, as applicable. Candidates will be asked to sign an authorization to release information for the purpose of background investigation, which may include verification of education, credit check, criminal, and driving records. Should an offer be extended prior to the completion of these checks, the offer will be made contingent on the successful completion of the reference and background checks.Application Process--Being authorized to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. VEDP uses the E-Verify system and does not provide sponsorship.All candidates must apply through our website https://www.vedp.org/careers. Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter. A valid Virginia driver's license and ability to obtain a passport is required. Application deadline: Open Until Filled.--VEDP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or against otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities. It is VEDP's intent that its employment and personnel--policies and practices conform to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Applicants requiring more information or requiring assistance may contact VEDP Human Resources at 1-804-545-5634 or--vedphr@VEDP.org. TDD 1-800-828-1120.----PI67fae2077288-25660-37204059

Keywords: Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Richmond , Vice President, External Affairs, Executive , Richmond, Virginia