Job Description

Job Location: The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research - Danville, VA 24540
Position Type: Full Time
Job Category: Professional ServicesThe Pay, Perks, & Benefits
- Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and determined based on market benchmarks and internal equity.
- Retirement benefits are provided through the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) with employer match.
- Generous time off is offered, including vacation, paid sick leave, and paid family leave after one year.
- Paid holidays include a two week paid winter break.
- Medical coverage includes Anthem PPO and HSA health plans with excellent dental options.
How You Will Help the Team
As the Research and Communications Specialist, you will play a key role in shaping how Southern Virginia is understood and positioned by prospective businesses, partners, and stakeholders. You will turn complex data into clear, compelling insights that support economic development and business recruitment across the region. By combining research, storytelling, and digital engagement, you will help elevate the region’s visibility and strengthen SVRA’s ability to attract investment, talent, and opportunity.
What You Will Do
- Lead research and analysis efforts to support strategic decision making and business recruitment initiatives
- Track industry trends across targeted sectors such as advanced manufacturing, logistics, materials, and energy
- Produce reports that highlight regional strengths, opportunities, and competitive positioning
- Collect and analyze demographic, workforce, and economic data to inform regional insights
- Develop regional and locality profiles, including demographic and econometric data
- Maintain accurate records in Salesforce and manage internal data systems and databases
- Translate research findings into visual and written communications, including reports, dashboards, infographics, and data-driven narratives
- Create and manage content such as newsletters, success stories, and regional updates
- Oversee SVRA’s digital platforms, including the website and social media channels, ensuring consistent and data-driven messaging
- Support marketing campaigns and initiatives, evaluate performance, and recommend improvements to enhance engagement and visibility
- Collaborate with regional partners to support business recruitment, site selection, and workforce development initiatives
- Provide research and insights for prospect engagement and recruitment efforts
- Contribute to events, prospect visits, and regional briefings to showcase the region’s strengths
- Support SVRA Board activities and partner organizations through research, communications, and coordination
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Your Knowledge and Expertise
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- Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, economics, business analytics, public administration, or a related field; master’s degree preferred
- Minimum of two years of experience in marketing, journalism, analytics, or economic development
- Strong writing, editing, and presentation skills with the ability to translate complex data into clear, persuasive messaging
- Demonstrated experience managing digital content, including social media platforms and web content
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and content management systems such as WordPress or Joomla
- Experience with data visualization or analytics tools is a plus
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
- Analytical, creative, and detail oriented with a collaborative, team focused approach
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What Makes Working Here Different
The Southern Virginia Regional Alliance offers the opportunity to contribute to a region that is actively growing and evolving. You will work alongside the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research and a network of local, regional, and state partners dedicated to advancing economic development and workforce growth.
This role provides meaningful impact, allowing you to directly influence how the region competes for new business and investment. You will engage with a wide range of stakeholders, from local leaders to global companies, and help tell the story of a region with strong assets, momentum, and opportunity.
The position is based onsite in Danville, Virginia, with flexibility for remote work as business needs allow.
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.