Director of Business and Economic Development

About BEAM Circular: 

BEAM Circular is unlocking the power of communities to transform waste into opportunity by building a vibrant regional ecosystem for the circular bioeconomy in California’s agricultural heartland. Anchored in the North San Joaquin Valley, we are facilitating collaboration through the BioEconomy, Agriculture, & Manufacturing (BEAM) Initiative to scale the most promising innovations in bioindustrial manufacturing. Our work includes public-private projects and programs in the areas of innovation, access to capital, infrastructure, talent development, and cross-cutting partnerships to advance economic and environmental value for local communities.

We have a dynamic, mission-driven team and are looking for partners to join us who believe in rolling up their sleeves to contribute to a bold vision; who have a results-oriented, “get things done” mentality; who lead with curiosity, collaboration, and kindness; and who are dedicated to positive impact for people and the planet.

BEAM Circular is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and encourages individuals identifying with any race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, national origin, and abilities to apply.

Position Summary:  

BEAM Circular is seeking a creative and enthusiastic Director of Business and Economic Development to lead efforts in attracting bioindustrial manufacturing companies to the North San Joaquin Valley (NSJV) and fostering a vibrant regional ecosystem for the circular bioeconomy. As a key member of the BEAM Circular leadership team, the ideal candidate will possess a strategic mindset, strong business acumen, and a passion for driving economic and environmental impact. Reporting to the Chief Program Officer, the Director of Business Development will play a pivotal role in identifying, engaging, and nurturing partnerships with anchor bioindustrial manufacturing firms, facilitating access to capital and infrastructure, supporting bioeconomy startups to help them navigate and accessing resources, and promoting innovation and collaboration within the circular bioeconomy sector.

Essential Functions:  

• Business Attraction: Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to attract bioindustrial manufacturing companies to the NSJV, focusing on quality job creation, connecting firms with local feedstock suppliers, bioproduct customer base expansion, and site readiness and marketing.
• Anchor Firm Engagement: Cultivate relationships with anchor firms through targeted financial and process incentives, facilitating business relationships with suppliers and customers in the region, showcasing the region's competitive advantages, and fostering cluster effects to enhance connectivity within the industry.
• Incentive Program Management: Design and coordinate with local and state public agencies to direct flexible, firm-specific incentives aligned with regulatory reforms and financial incentives to support anchor employer siting and expansion in the NSJV.
• Program Management: Oversee multiple organizational services and programs that directly support and accelerate bioeconomy firms in the NSJV, including a startup accelerator, technical assistance programs, and commercialization matching grants program. The Director will supervise a team of one-to-two program staff to implement these programs.
• Infrastructure Assessment: Assess site requirements and readiness to support bioindustrial manufacturing activities, support marketing of priority sites in the region for biomanufacturing, and facilitate connections between firms, brokers, relevant economic development agencies, and sites.
• Partnership Development: Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including technical assistance providers, government agencies, consultants, and economic development organizations, to leverage resources, collaborate to market the region, and accelerate bioindustrial manufacturer activities.

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Business Development Expertise: Proven track record in developing and executing business attraction strategies, preferably in the manufacturing, agricultural or renewable energy sector.
• Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with bioindustrial manufacturing processes, market trends, and regulatory landscape, with a focus on circular economy principles and sustainability.
• Relationship Management: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with anchor firms, government agencies, and industry stakeholders.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically, anticipate industry shifts, and develop innovative solutions to attract and retain bioindustrial manufacturing companies.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively articulate complex ideas and influence key decision-makers.
• Project Management: Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative Leadership: A collaborative and inclusive leadership style, with a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.

• Studies: Bachelor’s Degree and 8+ years professional experience required.
• Experience: Educational or professional experience in a science or technology driven field, especially in biomanufacturing or a closely related sector, preferred. Experience in environmental sustainability or climate technology is a plus.
• Mobility: Candidate must be able to attend in-person meetings across the North San Joaquin Valley region.

Environmental Conditions

• Indoors in a typical office environment approximately ninety-five percent (95%) of the time.
• Frequent computer use at the workstation for up to eight hours.  
• Frequently work at a fast pace with unscheduled interruptions.
• May occasionally move (walk or drive) from one work location to another.

Physical Demands

• Ability to walk, sit, stand, stoop, crouch, and climb stairs.
• Ability to move and lift up to 20 pounds.
• Visual Acuity (Far/Near).
• Regular and Consistent Attendance.

Benefits

Compensation: 

• Pay based on experience. Salary range is $100,000 to $110,000 with a competitive benefits package.
• Position based in Modesto, CA. Hybrid work arrangements permitted. 
• BEAM is incubated and fiscally sponsored by Opportunity Stanislaus, an organization that promotes regional economic growth and workforce development opportunities. The Program Associate will be hired as an employee of Opportunity Stanislaus, but will be dedicated to BEAM Circular operations. 

Changes: This job description will be updated if duties and responsibilities change significantly.  Job functions are subject to modification based on business necessity.

ADA/FEHA: BEAM Circular and Opportunity Stanislaus will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and California's Fair Employment and Housing Act.

EEO: BEAM Circular and Opportunity Stanislaus is an equal-opportunity employer.  All aspects of employment, including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs.  We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.