Regional Foreign Direct Investment Specialist - The Americas

About the role

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is hiring a Regional Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Specialist for the Americas, based in Chicago. The specialist develops the Office of Trade and Investment's FDI program for the Americas, promotes Illinois to potential investors and supports inbound investment projects. The position is full time, Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm, with a hybrid schedule of 1 to 5 days per week in the office.

Key responsibilities

• Develop the Office of Trade and Investment's FDI program for the Americas, including activities that attract companies to establish, maintain or expand facilities in Illinois
• Collaborate with public and private economic development entities and act as the primary point of contact for the Americas region
• Serve as project manager for business expansion and relocation opportunities from the Americas
• Develop program goals, objectives, performance measures and management plans for the Americas region
• Research and analyze foreign direct investment markets, economic trends and international trade policies to advise on long-term strategies

Required profile

• Equivalent to four years of college, preferably in business, marketing or international studies
• Three years of progressively responsible administrative experience in a public or business organization
• Experience working with international business in the public or private sector
• Background check, valid driver's license, ability to travel domestically and internationally and to work outside normal hours for different time zones

Preferred qualifications

• International trade experience (market research, lead generation)
• Experience in sales, marketing, business development or business counseling focused on international markets
• Project management, budget management, client management systems, spreadsheets and presentation experience

What we offer

• Starting salary of $8,571-$9,000 per month
• Pension program and competitive group insurance (health, life, dental, vision)
• 12 paid sick days, 13 paid holidays, 10-25 vacation days and 3 personal business days
• Flexible schedules, parental leave, deferred compensation and pre-tax programs