DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT - 80449

About the Role

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture is seeking a strategic, collaborative leader to serve as its Director of Business Development. This is an opportunity to help grow Tennessee's rural economies, expand markets for producers and agricultural and forestry businesses, and advance the industries that sustain communities across the state.

The Business Development Division works with Tennessee producers and agricultural and forestry businesses to increase farm- and forest-derived income. Through targeted incentives, industry partnerships, producer-focused support, and consumer-facing promotions, the Division creates diverse opportunities for growth while sharing the value of Tennessee agriculture and forestry with the public.

As Director of Business Development, you will lead a talented team and guide statewide initiatives that connect policy, programs, partnerships, and investment to meaningful economic outcomes. You will help position Tennessee producers and businesses to compete, grow, and succeed.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, train, supervise, and evaluate Business Development Division staff and their work.
• Direct the evaluation, planning, development, and delivery of business-development programs serving Tennessee producers and agricultural and forestry businesses.
• Ensure programs and services are delivered effectively, strategically, and without duplication across the state.
• Maintain strong connections with program staff, service-delivery partners, industry stakeholders, and producers to identify needs and strengthen outcomes.
• Study relevant federal and state policies and procedures; assess the impact of new or revised requirements; and recommend improvements to state policies and practices.
• Interpret policies, procedures, and program requirements for field staff and stakeholders.
• Help direct, administer, and review statewide policies and procedures related to business development, rural economic growth, producer support, and promotional initiatives.
• Serve as a key liaison to explain Division programs, respond to questions and concerns, and build productive relationships with producers, businesses, partners, and the public.
• Lead the preparation, submission, and administration of program operating budgets, while identifying opportunities to maximize available fiscal resources and investments.
• Provide recommendations to the Legislature regarding divisional priorities, emerging needs, proposed programs, and budget and fiscal plans.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of Department priorities.

Qualifications

The successful candidate is an experienced leader with sound judgment, a strong understanding of economic and business development, and a genuine commitment to Tennessee agriculture and forestry. They communicate clearly, build trusted partnerships, translate policy into action, and bring an entrepreneurial mindset to public service.

Preferred Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree and experience equivalent to five years of full-time professional work.