Business Development Manager

Business Development Manager

The mission of Louisiana Economic Development is to cultivate jobs and economic opportunity for the people of Louisiana. Business development manager serves as a key operational and programmatic leader for the Louisiana Growth Network, reporting to the Business Development Director. Responsible for coordinating business development initiatives, supporting statewide program delivery, cultivating stakeholder relationships, and ensuring Louisiana businesses receive effective technical assistance and growth support.

Minimum Qualifications: Seven years of experience in economic research or development, financial services, international relations, marketing, or real estate; OR Six years of full-time work experience in any field plus four years of experience in economic research or development, financial services, international relations, marketing, or real estate; OR A bachelor's degree plus four years of experience in economic research or development, financial services, international relations, marketing, or real estate; OR An advanced degree in a business administration field, economics, or international trade plus three years of experience in economic research or development, financial services, international relations, marketing, or real estate. EXPERIENCE SUBSTITUTION: Every 30 semester hours earned from an accredited college or university will be credited as one year of experience towards the six years of full-time work experience in any field. The maximum substitution allowed is 120 semester hours which substitutes for a maximum of four years of experience in any field. Certification as an Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) or completion of the Economic Development Institute certificate program will substitute for one year of the required experience. Possession of a Professional Community and Economic Developer Certification (PCED) or Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) certification will substitute for two years of the required experience.

Job Duties and Other Information: Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Program Management

• Coordinate and support Louisiana Growth Network programs serving small businesses, entrepreneurs, and second-stage companies.
• Ensure program activities align with organizational goals and strategic priorities.
• Monitor program effectiveness and recommend improvements to enhance service delivery and outcomes.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to ensure consistent statewide support.

Client Engagement & Technical Assistance

• Serve as a primary contact for businesses seeking assistance.
• Conduct intake assessments and connect businesses with appropriate resources, technical assistance, and growth opportunities.
• Support business development in areas such as planning, market expansion, capital access, and operational improvement.
• Maintain ongoing communication to track progress and identify emerging needs.

Stakeholder & Partner Relations

• Build and maintain relationships with economic development organizations, universities, chambers, lenders, and other partners.
• Represent the organization at meetings, workshops, conferences, and outreach events.
• Promote awareness of Louisiana Growth Network services and strengthen statewide collaboration.

Data, Reporting & Performance Tracking

• Track business engagements, referrals, outcomes, and program participation.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and supporting documentation for leadership and stakeholders.
• Analyze data to identify trends, service gaps, and opportunities for improvement.

Strategic Initiatives & Administrative Support

• Support special projects and strategic initiatives related to entrepreneurship, business growth, and economic development.
• Provide operational and administrative support as needed.
• Perform other duties that advance the mission of the Louisiana Growth Network.

Position-Specific Details: Appointment Type: Only Permanent Classified employees of La Economic Development will be considered Louisiana Economic Development is a State as a Model Employer (SAME) agency that supports improved employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

How To Apply: No Civil Service test score is required in order to be considered for this vacancy. To apply for this vacancy, click on the "Apply" link above and complete an electronic application, which can be used for this vacancy as well as future job opportunities. Applicants are responsible for checking the status of their application to determine where they are in the recruitment process. Further status message information is located under the Information section of the Current Job Opportunities page. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be included in the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education). Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections. Applications may be rejected if incomplete.

Contact Information: If you have any questions, please contact: Dawn Thibodeaux Human Resources Director View email address on click.appcast.io