Director, NYS Office of Trade and Tourism

*Applicants MUST submit a cover letter with resume to be considered.
*This position will require in-office presence. Hybrid work schedules may be possible based on specific job duties and consistent with ESD policy.
*Minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Please contact Human Resources if you require an accommodation.

BASIC FUNCTION:
The Director will be charged with directing and managing ESD's Regional Office in Puerto Rico. Director will be responsible for sourcing, originating and developing a robust pipeline of investment attraction and foreign direct investment opportunities. The role will also offer trade assistance services; provide country-specific intelligence; manage trade events; and prepare reports.

WORK PERFORMED:
• Direct operations of ESD Regional Office on a day-to-day basis.
• Identify distribution channels for New York State industries in Puerto Rico.
• Assist New York State exporters traveling to Puerto Rico in identifying distribution channels and facilitate their connections with local entities (e.g. — offer language assistance, education on foreign business protocols, and assistance with local regulations.)
• Develop and employ strategies to sustain and expand New York's current markets in Puerto Rico, while identifying and prioritizing the best prospects in untapped Puerto Rican markets and industry sectors.
• Provide foreign market intelligence, including product market viability, market penetration strategy, market development strategy, product adaptation, modification and compliance.
• Build and maintain relationships with governmental and quasi-governmental entities, real estate and business groups, civic and community organizations, cultural and professional organizations, and advocacy groups.
• Provide on-site planning, budgeting and implementing of trade shows specific to Puerto Rico with overall project management by ESD.
• Attend trade shows and participate in trade and investment missions, providing service to NYS firms or NYS economic developers.
• Maintain database of superior industry-specific trade events.
• Prepare reports tracking key industry statistics and market trends in Puerto Rico (e.g. — best industries, best products, trade shows, trade leads, associations, etc.)
• Represent ESD on issues relevant to the State economy and business climate
• Other duties to be discussed.

Education Level Required: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Finance, Marketing &/or Economics.

Relevant Experience Required: 10 years' experience in urban or regional development and/or in economic development policy formulation.

Knowledge Required: Fluency in Spanish, broad knowledge of business, economic development and public development programs and management.