Business Development Manager – International and Immigrant Engagement

Description

Business Development Manager – International and Immigrant Engagement

Cleveland is a city built by immigrants, and immigrant entrepreneurship is a cornerstone of our history and future growth. However, newcomers often face significant challenges when starting, growing, and sustaining their businesses. The Business Development Manager, International and Immigrant Engagement, will play a crucial role in identifying, supporting, and fostering immigrant entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on small business development. This role will strategically position Cleveland as a thriving hub for immigrant businesses by coordinating efforts of the Department of Economic Development, the Office of the Mayor, and community partners. The position will report directly to the Deputy Director of Business Growth.

In addition to supporting immigrant entrepreneurs, this role will be integral to the Department of Economic Development’s efforts to attract and expand international businesses in Cleveland. The manager will develop a deep understanding of the local ecosystem that supports foreign-owned businesses, identifying existing resources and addressing any gaps in the current system. By fostering connections with international partners and stakeholders, this person will help ensure that Cleveland remains a competitive and attractive destination for foreign direct investment, business expansion, and long-term economic growth.

Examples of Duties

Under administrative direction, is responsible for planning and adminstering a specific project or program for a City department. Serves as the administrative supervisor on projects or programs. Plans, assigns, supervises, and reviews activities of subordinate personnel. Monitors the project or program’s operating budget and assists in the annual preparation of same. Designs, implements, and monitors procedures utilized in program evaluation. Develops and secures commitments from other City departments and agencies to provide services to program participants. Provides technical assistance or reviews program policies and procedures. Maintains current information and oversees the preparation of project status reports. Prepares financial and narrative reports and program applications. Communicates project/program status and information to municipal officials and/or public and private entities. May supervise employees assigned to the respective project. Performs other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

A High School Diploma or GED is required. A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four year college or university in Business or Public Administration, Social Sciences, or closely related field preferred. Two (2) years of full-time, paid, progressively responsible experience in program administration is required. Must be able to lift and carry thirty (30) pounds. A valid State of Ohio Driver’s License is required.

Supplemental Information

Key Responsibilities

Establish Cleveland as a Home for Immigrant and International Businesses:

• Develop and implement initiatives that foster business creation, investment, and job growth within immigrant communities.
• Collaborate with city departments, local economic development organizations, and immigrant advocacy groups to streamline services for immigrant-owned businesses.
• Provide input on policies and programs to foster an inclusive business environment for international entrepreneurs.
• Assist in organizing and attending networking events, forums, and business development seminars aimed at the international business community.
• Track and report engagement metrics with immigrant and foreign-owned businesses to measure progress and impact.
• Develop proactive strategies to engage existing foreign-owned businesses in Cleveland, ensuring they have access to support programs and addressing challenges.
• Participate in business attraction initiatives, promoting Cleveland as a prime destination for foreign direct investment and representing the city’s interests in international business development.
• Other duties as assigned.

System Navigation for New Entrepreneurs:

• Serve as the primary liaison for immigrant entrepreneurs seeking to establish businesses in Cleveland, offering guidance on resources, permits, and regulations.
• Work closely with Neighborhood Investment Managers to facilitate access to grants, loans, training programs, and other business development resources.
• Provide direct advisory services to immigrant business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs.
• Connect immigrant businesses with local mentors and networks for guidance and shared experiences.
• Ensure city applications and marketing materials are accessible to citizens with limited English proficiency (LEP) or those who speak English as a second language (ESL) by translating and adapting resources.
• Maintain knowledge of local, state, and federal programs supporting business development and immigrant entrepreneurs, including funding opportunities, technical assistance, and incentives.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

• Minimum of ten (10) years of experience in Economic Development, Workforce Development, Business Support, or related fields. 
• Credible understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by immigrant communities related to business. 
• Proven track record of business development, including experience with small business support and investment attraction.
• Strong relationship building skills with the ability to engage affectively with a diverse range of stakeholders
• Proficiency in multiple languages is a plus.
• Understanding of contemporary social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion challenges. 
• Strong analytical, organizational, customer service, oral and written communication skills required. 
• Demonstrated effectiveness at building and maintaining interpersonal relationships. 
• Commitment to public and customer service. 
• Commitment to innovation and possesses an entrepreneurial spirit. 
• Dedicated to maintaining high ethical standards. 

The City’s guiding principles are as follows: Placing Clevelanders at the Center, Empowering Employees to Do Purposeful Work, Defining Clear and Pragmatic Objectives, Leading with Trust and Transparency, Striving for Equity in All We Do, and Embracing Change. All City employees are responsible for embracing and carrying out these principles in all that they do.

The City of Cleveland makes available a variety of benefit options depending upon your employment status and any applicable union membership. In general, benefit options include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, prescription medical and life insurance. Specific information regarding benefit eligibility will be discussed and reviewed at the time of hire.

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