Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from Kandiyohi County Economic Development
Job overview
The Business Development Manager at Kandiyohi County Economic Development leads efforts to support business retention, expansion, and recruitment, impacting regional economic growth.
Responsibilities and impact
The role involves supervising program coordinators, managing budgets and grants, mentoring small businesses, connecting businesses with resources, preparing entrepreneurs for investment, managing community events, and collaborating with committees to implement development strategies.
Compensation and benefits
The salary range is $65,000 to $90,000 with limited remote work (one day per week after probation). Benefits details are not specified.
Experience and skills
Candidates must have a bachelor's degree in business administration, finance, accounting, economics, or urban planning and at least 3 years of experience supporting small businesses, preferably in finance or banking.
Work environment and culture
The organization promotes economic growth through collaboration with local government and community partners, emphasizing community engagement and public relations.
Company information
Kandiyohi County Economic Development, established in 2003, is a joint powers entity between Kandiyohi County and the City of Willmar focused on regional economic growth and industry development.
Team overview
The manager will work closely with the Executive Director and various KCED committees, overseeing program coordinators and collaborating with community partners.
Job location and travel
The position is based in Willmar, MN, with limited remote work options after the probationary period.
Application process
Applicants must submit a cover letter, 3-4 references with permission, and a resume to kced@kandiyohi.com; interviews start July 21-22, 2025.
Unique job features
The role offers the option for split duties between part-time or full-time depending on applicant skills and includes managing diverse economic development programs and community partnerships.
Company overview
Kandiyohi County Economic Development is a public organization focused on driving economic growth and supporting business development within Kandiyohi County, Minnesota. The agency works to attract new businesses, assist existing companies with expansion, and promote workforce development through partnerships with local government, educational institutions, and private sector stakeholders. Revenue is typically generated through public funding, grants, and collaborative projects that stimulate local investment and job creation. Notably, the organization has played a key role in regional initiatives such as infrastructure improvements and small business support programs. Candidates should understand its mission-driven approach and the importance of community engagement in its operations.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight your experience in business development, client engagement, and program management, emphasizing your ability to support small businesses and collaborate with stakeholders.
Focus on showcasing skills in budget management, grant submissions, mentoring, and coordinating community events, as these are key responsibilities for the role.
Apply through multiple channels including the Kandiyohi County Economic Development official website, the provided email address, and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility.
Connect with current employees or committee members at Kandiyohi County Economic Development on LinkedIn, using ice breakers such as asking about recent community events like the Partners in AG conference or inquiring about their experience with the Elevate Community Business Academy.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'business retention,' 'economic development,' 'grant management,' 'client engagement,' and 'workshop coordination' to ensure it passes automated screenings.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailoring your resume, identify the best application channels, and find relevant LinkedIn contacts, allowing you to focus more on preparing for interviews and networking.
Jennie Johnson works for you!
Here’s what we do to make sure you’re successful:
Targeted Resume Revamp:
We expertly craft your resume to navigate Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and showcase your qualifications, making you stand out as a top-tier candidate.
Job Description Dissection:
Unpack the job posting with expert analysis, ensuring your application hits every key requirement.
Bespoke Cover Letter:
Capture the attention of hiring managers with a personalized cover letter that highlights how your skills align perfectly with the job's needs.
Interview Mastery:
Prepare for interviews like a pro with likely questions, strategic answers, and insightful questions for you to ask, setting you apart as an informed candidate.
Direct Application Insights:
Receive tailored advice on the best places to apply, ensuring your applications are seen by the right employers.
Skills and Gaps Assessment:
Identify and close critical skills gaps to position yourself as the best-fit candidate for your ideal job.
Personalized Email Pitch:
Make a memorable first impression with an email template crafted to engage potential employers and initiate meaningful conversations.
In-depth Research Guide:
Leverage comprehensive research tools to gather effective insights on companies, industry trends, and role-specific challenges.
Detailed Company Analysis:
Gain in-depth understanding of your prospective employer, giving you the edge in applications and interviews.
Strategic Candidate Overview:
Understand your unique value and why companies would want to interview you, highlighting your background and positioning.