5-7 years of experience in economic development or related fields
Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills
Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities
Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Experience with CRM systems, preferably Salesforce
Self-motivated and able to work independently
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Responsibilities
Develop and maintain executive relationships with existing employers
Conduct company visits to identify expansion opportunities and business needs
Manage a portfolio of target companies using structured account management
Coordinate with local economic development organizations and stakeholders
Lead expansion and retention projects from identification to implementation
Maintain accurate company intelligence within Salesforce
Monitor industry trends to proactively identify engagement opportunities
Benefits
Opportunity to strengthen the regional economy
Collaborative work environment
Engagement with diverse stakeholders
Involvement in strategic program initiatives
Professional development opportunities
Full Job Description
Description
Director, Business Retention & Expansion
Greater St. Louis, Inc. is seeking a relationship-driven economic development professional to join the Business Retention & Expansion (BRE) team and help execute a proactive regional strategy that supports existing employers across the 15-county St. Louis region.
Are you passionate long-term economic prosperity for the St. Louis region?
We are looking for a collaborative, strategic, and solutions-oriented leader who enjoys building executive relationships, identifying opportunities, and connecting companies with the resources they need to succeed. The Director of Business Retention & Expansion serves as a trusted advisor to existing employers while helping strengthen the region's economy through proactive business engagement.
In this role you will:
Develop and maintain executive relationships with existing employers across the St. Louis region
Conduct company visits to identify expansion opportunities, retention risks, workforce challenges, and other business needs
Manage a portfolio of target companies using a structured account management approach
Coordinate with local economic development organizations, utilities, workforce partners, higher education institutions, and other regional stakeholders to address company needs
Lead expansion and retention projects from opportunity identification through implementation
Maintain accurate company intelligence and project information within Salesforce
Monitor industry trends and emerging business issues to proactively identify opportunities for engagement
Support investor engagement activities by strengthening relationships with GSL member companies
Represent Greater St. Louis, Inc. at meetings, events, and industry functions throughout the region
Contribute to program strategy, performance reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives
The ideal candidate will have:
Experience in economic development, business development, account management, corporate relations, or a related field
Outstanding relationship-building and communication skills with the ability to engage senior executives
Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
Experience managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
Ability to work collaboratively across organizations and build consensus among diverse stakeholders
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Experience using CRM systems, preferably Salesforce
Self-motivation with the ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment
If you are passionate about helping companies grow and want to play a meaningful role in strengthening the St. Louis regional economy, we encourage you to apply.
This position is based in St. Louis, Missouri - in office.
Upon submission of your application, you will receive an email from Greater St. Louis, Inc. with a link to take a "culture fit" assessment through Talent+. Your application will only be reviewed once you have completed the assessment.
