Business Development Director

Description:

Export Development Canada (EDC) is seeking a Directeur Relations Associées, Petites Entreprises – National to join its Strategy and Business Execution team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the success of EDC’s 2030 Corporate Plan by identifying, engaging, and supporting small business clients across Canada. The position combines proactive prospecting, client engagement, and strategic collaboration to generate qualified business leads and help Canadian small enterprises grow globally.

You will work closely with the national director and various internal teams, including sales, marketing, and business operations, to develop effective lead-generation strategies. Your role involves identifying and researching potential clients, understanding their operations, business goals, market-entry strategies, and international trade opportunities, and helping them connect with EDC’s financial and advisory services.

EDC offers a hybrid work model, requiring employees to work two days per week on-site. Eligible candidates may be based at the EDC headquarters in Ottawa or at regional community hubs in Toronto, Mississauga, Montréal, Brossard, Laval, Calgary, Halifax, or Vancouver. Relocation assistance is available for qualified applicants.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct research, qualification, and engagement of potential business leads from various sources.

• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and business development teams to design lead management strategies.

• Engage in proactive prospecting and outreach to potential clients.

• Maintain accurate and detailed client information in the CRM system for reporting and communications.

• Provide clear, concise, and professional internal and external communications.

• Support the implementation of the national strategy for business development and lead generation.

• Achieve targets for qualified lead generation and client engagement.

• Work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Qualifications and Skills Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Commerce, or a related discipline.

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in business development or related fields.

• Strong understanding of sales and account management best practices.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

• Fluency in both English and French (bilingual proficiency required).

• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working within the Canadian business ecosystem (e.g., economic development agencies, industry associations, or chambers of commerce).

• Knowledge of international trade and commercial practices.

• CITP (Certified International Trade Professional) designation is considered an asset.

Employee Benefits:

• Flexible benefits plan including health, dental, and life insurance with additional credits for customization.

• Defined contribution pension plan with generous matching contributions.

• Competitive vacation policy with four weeks of annual leave and two personal days upon hiring.

• Comprehensive wellness programs, including mental health and fitness initiatives.

• Opportunities for professional development such as language training, conferences, and learning programs.

• Recognition as one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers, Best Diversity Employers, and Family-Friendly Employers.