Program Director, Export Accelerator

Description

The Program Director for the EDPNC Export Accelerator will play a pivotal role in designing, promoting, managing, and scaling a high-impact initiative aimed at supporting businesses in expanding their international presence. This role is central to the success of the EDPNC Export Accelerator, and the Program Director will be responsible for every aspect of the program’s development and execution.  This position requires a unique blend of project management skills, external marketing leadership, client consulting, and relationship management. The Program Director will be the go-to leader for promoting the program internally and externally, while also delivering an unparalleled client experience for businesses participating in the Accelerator. 

If you’re a self-starter with a natural leadership ability, strong communication skills, and a passion for fostering international trade growth, we want you to be a key player in this exciting new initiative. 

What You'll Do

Program Design and Development

• Lead the development of the Export Accelerator program, including designing the structure, goals, and delivery processes, ensuring alignment with the mission of driving increased export growth. 
• Work closely with subject matter experts to design tailored programs for businesses at various stages of international expansion. 

Program Management and Execution

• Manage the end-to-end program process, ensuring all components of the Accelerator are delivered on time, within scope, and meet the expected quality standards. 
• Handle day-to-day operations of the Accelerator, monitoring the progress of participating businesses and keeping them on track with the export plan, addressing challenges, and ensuring smooth program delivery. 
• Continuously improve the program by integrating feedback from participants, stakeholders, and industry experts. 

Marketing and Promotion

• Take a leadership role in promoting the Export Accelerator, ensuring its visibility both internally and externally. 
• Develop and execute a marketing strategy to raise awareness about the program, engage target participants, and attract new businesses to join. 
• Foster strong relationships with key stakeholders, including private companies, economic development leaders, and industry partners. 

Client Consulting and Engagement

• Provide high-touch consulting to program participants, including research and market validation and development of a tailored export plan.
• Provide coaching through best practices for export growth and international market expansion. 
• Serve as a trusted advisor to businesses, offering expert guidance on overcoming barriers and implementing actionable steps for success in global markets. 
• Act as the main point of contact for clients, building strong, long-term relationships and ensuring an exceptional client experience throughout the program year. 

Monitoring, Reporting, and Impact Measurement

• Track program metrics, outcomes, and success stories, using data to improve the program and ensure it delivers meaningful results for participants. 
• Regularly report on program progress to internal and external stakeholders, including economic development leaders and program sponsors. 

Leadership and Motivation

• Lead by example, serving as a motivator and cheerleader for businesses navigating challenges within the program, particularly in its first pilot year. 
• Maintain confidence and enthusiasm even in the face of obstacles, ensuring that program participants feel supported and encouraged. 
• Help translate the program’s impact and successes into clear metrics that resonate with economic development leaders. 

Working Conditions

• Hybrid  schedule – Mondays and Fridays remote, Tuesdays-Thursdays in downtown  Raleigh office.
• International Travel is required. Multiple trips per year with stays ranging 4-7 days.
• Domestic travel required for trade shows, company visits and training. Stays ranging 2-7 days.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None-Position directs the Export Accelerator program and has no direct reports.

Why Join Us?

• Impact: Play a leading role in shaping a program designed to help businesses achieve international growth and  scale. 
• Growth: Be part of an innovative and dynamic team dedicated to fostering global trade. 
• Challenge: Thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment where you can make a significant difference. 
• Support: Work with a motivated team and have access to the tools and resources necessary to succeed. 

Requirements

Qualifications: Experience & Expertise

• At least 5 years of experience in program management, international business, economic development, or a related field. 
• Strong understanding of international trade, export processes, and the global market landscape. 
• Experience in consulting, client management, or customer service with a focus on business growth and development.   
• Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Economics, or a related field, plus experience in trade/export assistance, global sales, or economic development. 

Leadership & Communication

• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels. 
• Proven leadership ability and a self-starter mentality, with the ability to motivate, support, and guide clients toward success. 
• Comfortable leading conversations with a variety of stakeholders, including business owners, government representatives, and industry experts. 

Adaptability & Problem-Solving

• Ability to anticipate challenges, adapt to new situations, and react to changes swiftly while maintaining program integrity. 
• A solutions-oriented mindset and an ability to navigate unexpected obstacles during the pilot phase and beyond. 

Collaboration & Relationship Management

• Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to collaborate with subject matter experts, government agencies, and private companies. 
• Skilled in managing and cultivating long-term relationships with program participants and external stakeholders. 

Personal Attributes

• A resilient and positive mindset, able to inspire confidence and enthusiasm even in the face of challenges. 
• Confidence, curiosity, and a strong drive to tackle challenges head-on. 
• Passion for international trade and helping businesses achieve export success. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Familiarity with the economic development landscape and the ability to engage with Economic Development leaders. 
• Experience in promoting programs, managing marketing efforts, and building program visibility. 
• Proficiency in program management tools and software. 

OUR MISSION:

The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) is focused on recruiting new businesses to the state, supporting the needs of existing businesses, connecting exporters to global customers, helping small business owners get their start, and attracting tourists and visitors from all over the world.

OUR COMMITTMENT TO DIVERSITY:

At the EDPNC, we embrace the differences of people living in, working in, and visiting our socially, environmentally, and economically diverse state, as well as those who plan to come. We know that our greatest strengths come from the people who make up our team, and we strive to be both ambassadors and catalysts for preserving the beauty of the cultural patchwork that makes North Carolina a welcoming place for all.