Business Development Director

Reports to: Managing Vice President, Business Development Job Summary The Detroit Regional Partnership (DRP) is an economic development nonprofit dedicated to serving and promoting the 11-county region of southeast Michigan. Founded in 2019 by a group of business and philanthropic CEOs, our organization is laser-focused on marketing the region to out-of-state and international companies, attracting investments, spurring job growth, and sharing the Detroit Region’s story with the world. Key Responsibilities Business Development & Relationship Management (50%) Build and manage a robust pipeline of cluster-based company targets actively exploring U.S. expansion opportunities. Conduct strategic outreach (virtual and in-person) to position the Detroit Region on company shortlists for investment. Cultivate and maintain long-term relationships with site selectors, consultants, and key economic development multipliers. Represent DRP at tradeshows, investment missions, delegations, and company meetings to generate leads and advance opportunities. Deliver compelling written and verbal presentations that articulate the Detroit Region’s competitive business case. Collaborate closely with Lead Generation and Client Services teams to ensure seamless transitions from lead identification through project execution. Project Management & Deal Execution (50%) Serve as the primary concierge and project manager for an assigned portfolio of active attraction prospects. Drive cross-functional coordination of DRP internal teams and external partners to address client needs, including market intelligence, workforce data, real estate solutions, and incentives guidance. Manage project timelines, milestones, and communications within Salesforce CRM to ensure timely progression of deals. Guide prospects through the site selection process, from initial exploration to final investment decision, resulting in job creation and capital investment in the region. Navigate complex deal dynamics and problem‑solve strategically to overcome barriers and maintain project momentum. Critical skills/experience required You bring significant experience advising or consulting senior (C‑suite) leadership on business growth, expansion, or location decisions. You have experience managing complex projects or deals in a fast‑paced, results‑oriented environment. You possess strong strategic thinking and problem‑solving skills, developed through economic development, consulting, corporate strategy, or related fields. You have demonstrated success building and maintaining high‑value professional relationships, ideally across industry clusters and with domestic and international stakeholders. You have experience working with or knowledge of economic development incentives; familiarity with Michigan programs is a plus. You have international experience (professional or personal) and are comfortable operating in a global business environment. You are a self‑starter who can work independently while also collaborating effectively across teams. You are an exceptional communicator, with the ability to deliver clear, persuasive presentations to diverse audiences. You are highly organized, detail‑oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. You are proficient in Microsoft Office and CRM platforms; Salesforce experience preferred. You are willing and able to travel domestically and internationally as needed. Why Join DRP When you work for the Detroit Regional Partnership, you will be part of a small but highly impactful team. You will collaborate with regional and global leaders, gain exposure to transformative economic development projects, and play a direct role in shaping the future of Southeast Michigan’s economy. We offer a robust professional development program, meaningful networking opportunities, and executive‑level exposure to support your growth. DRP also provides a competitive compensation and benefits package, including performance bonus, generous paid time off, retirement contribution match, health insurance (medical, dental, vision), and life insurance. Are you ready to work with us? Apply now! DRP is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr Detroit Regional Partnership