GLOBAL RESEARCH SPECIALIST

Richmond, VA

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is seeking a Global Research Specialist to provide project management and administrative support for VEDP’s Global Network Research Program.

The Global Research Specialist will support VEDP’s Global Network Research Program, where 25+ consultants collaborate with VEDP to provide research to Virginia businesses on foreign markets. This position will support research project workflow, assist in client meeting facilitation, review research findings, and process payments. This position reports to the Global Research Manager.

The position is part of VEDP’s International Trade Division, which is recognized as the leading state international trade development program in the U.S. The International Trade division provides a range of resources such as customized market research, international business meetings, and programs to help Virginia companies grow their international sales. Learn more about the International Trade division at https://exportvirginia.org.

Responsibilities:

• Track project workflow and deadlines for international market research projects for Virginia businesses
• Assist with preparing and renewing contracts for research providers
• Assist with organizing research consultant visits to Virginia
• Lead conference calls with Virginia businesses and research consultants to determine the scope of international research projects
• Manage client interactions with contracted research consultants
• Review final research reports for grammar and consistency with the scope of the project
• Process and track payments related to market research activities in accounting software
• Maintain program materials, including PowerPoints, marketing materials, and website content
• Stay up to date on market opportunities around the world to advise International Trade Division staff and Virginia businesses on a regular basis
• Continually seek ways to improve international market research for Virginia businesses
• Support trade missions and trade shows by working with international consultants and VEDP colleagues to deliver successful events for participating businesses

Skills:

• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail to maintain a high level of accuracy when reviewing requests from businesses
• Demonstrated experience using multiple software packages, such as Microsoft Office
• Working knowledge of international business practices and awareness of geography, foreign customs, and cultures
• Collaborative and proactive project management experience
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written) and demonstrated ability to be responsive, helpful, courteous, and professional when working with colleagues and customers
• Excels under pressure, in fast-paced work environment
• Enjoys meeting needs/deadlines of internal and external customers
• Familiarity with Salesforce or other CRM software preferred

Experience:

• Experience in economics, marketing, communications, international business, international relations, or a related field, is preferred
• Academic or professional experience in fields of international business or marketing is preferred
• A valid driver’s license and ability to obtain a passport required

This position is based in VEDP’s office in Richmond, Virginia three days each week and has the option to telework two days each week according to VEDP’s hybrid work policy. This position requires occasional in-state and international travel.

Being authorized to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. VEDP uses the E-Verify system and does not provide sponsorship.

Applicants must provide a short cover letter and a résumé. All candidates must apply through our website: https://www.vedp.org/careers. Salary Minimum: $62,000, commensurate with experience. Application deadline: July 11, 2025

VEDP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or against otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities. It is VEDP’s intent that its employment and personnel policies and practices conform to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Applicants requiring more information or requiring assistance may contact VEDP Human Resources at 1-804-545-5634 or vedphr@VEDP.org. TDD 1-800-828-1120.