Development vice presidents are responsible for creating strategic business partnerships and driving the organization forward. They do this through several means, including conducting industry-specific research, competitor analysis, and managing their team.
The most powerful tool used by development vice presidents is strategic partnerships. They seek out business relationships that are beneficial to the organization and may help them accomplish new goals. Development vice presidents also vet potential partnerships before the deal is struck. They vet the partner company and uncover relevant information.
These professionals have day-to-day administrative duties that may include meeting with the CEO and other stakeholders, attending industry conferences and trade shows, and managing a small team of employees.
To become a development vice president, you need advanced degrees in related fields like economics or business development. You also need up to ten years of experience in client management, professional services, and possibly, business development. Development vice presidents tend to have strong leadership and relationship building skills.