Strategic Business Development Director

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Develops and implements a vision, strategies, and processes to drive new business and revenue generation for the university
• Identifies and builds upon business opportunities to grow the university's brand and reputation as premier event venue
• Creates, develops, and maintains client relationships and industry partnerships in support of new and existing revenue streams
• Affirms low usage periods and formulates strategies to increase venue usage and revenue production during these periods
• Builds and expands customer base with targeted markets, including community and civic organizations, corporate entities, and sports and entertainment industries
• Establishes and maintains effective relationships with sales teams and event services staff to maximize leads and opportunities
• Participates in familiarization tours

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of RIT programs, institutional goals/objectives, student services, and university policies to effectively navigate and identify opportunities
• Knowledge of business development and targeted sales strategies, tactics, and techniques that effectively communicate value and engage potential clients
• Skill in strategic management of venue operations
• Skill in crafting and executing innovative marketing strategies that enhance RIT's visibility
• Ability to establish and maintain strong, productive relationships with stakeholders, fostering connections that drive business development
• Ability to identify and resolve complex business challenges through strategic decision-making and data-informed analysis

Minimum Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in related field
• 10 years of relevant experience

Job Level Overview

Specialized Contributor Level 4 - An advanced/lead role requiring a high degree of knowledge and recognized expertise in the profession or field. Manages large projects, programs, or specialized assignments that are strategic in nature and are without precedent and/or structure. Typically serves as a mentor to less experienced staff and reviews or delegates work.

Additional Details

• RIT Certified is a strategic university initiative supported by RIT leadership designed to expand Rochester Institute of Technology's engagement with industry through professional education and partnership-based learning programs.
• RIT Certified delivers flexible, industry-informed professional learning experiences that connect subject matter experts, including RIT faculty, with the evolving needs of employers and professionals.
• The Director of Strategic Business Development reports to the Executive Director of RIT Certified. They lead the unit's external engagement strategy with a clear mandate: generate revenue through strategic relationship development, market expansion, and partnership cultivation.
• This role serves as the primary driver of business development for RIT Certified, with accountability for building and managing a pipeline of employer, government, and community relationships that drive enrollment growth, secure paid contracts, and deliver strong financial performance.
• The Director serves as the primary voice of the customer within RIT Certified, ensuring that employer needs and feedback are clearly understood, documented, and communicated in program development and delivery.
• The role ensures that all opportunities are clearly defined, approved, and ready for execution before transition to Product Development and Operations.
• This position offers a unique opportunity to apply an entrepreneurial mindset to advancing a growing university initiative.
• The Director will bring a strong business acumen and the ability to identify strategic markets, grow revenue, and scale in-person and online programming to expand RIT Certified reach and impact.
• Growth will be driven through strategic industry partnerships, development of custom training initiatives, and expansion of professional education offerings aligned with employer needs.