Director-International Business Development

Job Posting

Important Recruitment Information for this vacancy

The Department of Commerce participates in the E-Verify program.

Agency Information:

As the state's lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses.

Through Commerce's project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine's prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor's Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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About the Position

Position Description

Who can apply:
Open to all

Classified/Unclassified Service:
Unclassified

Full-Time/Part-Time:
Full-Time

Work Schedule:

Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Eligible to Receive Benefits:
Yes

Veterans' Preference Eligible:
Yes

Location:

Topeka, KS

Job Posting closes:
August 10, 2026

Compensation: $ to $ annually

* Salary can vary depending upon education, experience, or qualifications.

Employment Benefits

Comprehensive medical, mental, dental, vision, and additional coverage

Sick & Vacation leave

Work-Life Balance programs: parental leave, military leave, jury leave, funeral leave

Paid State Holidays (designated by the Governor annually)

Fitness Centers in select locations

Employee discounts with the STAR Program

Retirement and deferred compensation programs

Visit the Employee Benefits page for more information…

Position Summary & Responsibilities

Position Summary:

The Director of International Business Development serves as the executive leader for the State of Kansas' international business development strategy, advancing foreign direct investment, export growth, and global economic competitiveness. Provides leadership and oversight of the International Division, develops strategic partnerships with global stakeholders, and advises executive leadership on international economic development initiatives. Represents the State in high-level international engagements, trade missions, and global industry events to attract investment, expand trade opportunities, and drive economic growth and job creation for Kansas.

Job Responsibilities may include but are not limited to the following:

* Serves as the executive leader responsible for developing, implementing, and managing the State of Kansas' global business development strategy focused on foreign direct investment attraction, international trade expansion, export growth, and global economic competitiveness.

* Develops and maintains high-level relationships with foreign governments, multinational corporations, site selection consultants, economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, trade associations, and international partners to advance Kansas' position in the global economy.

* Represents the State of Kansas with international delegations, foreign dignitaries, business executives, and strategic partners. Leads efforts to identify, cultivate, and convert international business opportunities into economic growth, capital investment, and job creation for Kansas.

* Directs the planning, strategy, and execution of international business development initiatives, including Governor and Lt. Governor-led and executive-level trade missions, foreign investment recruitment missions, global industry events, and targeted market engagement strategies.

* Oversees Kansas' presence at internationally significant events including the Farnborough International Airshow, Paris Air Show, SelectUSA Investment Summit, and other priority industry platforms aligned with Kansas' targeted sectors. Leads recruitment and engagement of Kansas companies participating in international trade opportunities and develops

* Serves as a senior advisor to the Secretary, Deputy Secretary, Governor's Office, and Administration on matters related to international economic development, foreign direct…