Business Development Specialist

About Ballad

Ballad is a purpose-driven organization dedicated to empowering resilient people, businesses, and communities across Canada. Our work is built on trust, respect, and our core values— accountability, collaboration, and entrepreneurship .

One of the ways we make an impact is through AgriEdge , a workforce development program designed to help skilled newcomers & immigrants launch careers in agriculture, agri-business and finance . Over 14 weeks , participants receive industry-specific training , career coaching, and a 3-week work placement .

At Ballad, our success is measured by the success of our participants —securing meaningful, long-term employment. That’s where you come in.

About the Role

The Business Development Specialist is responsible for building employer partnerships, securing work experience and job placements for participants, and ensuring at leas t 70% employment retention over 90 days. This role requires a proactive individual who can effectively connect with employers to create and find opportunities that align with our participants' skills and career aspirations. Your ability to close deals and facilitate successful employment outcomes is crucial to the success of the AgriEdge program.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop Employer Partnerships: Build relationships with employers in agriculture, agri-business and finance to identify hiring needs and find job opportunities.


• Secure Job Placements: Match participants with suitable employment and ensure at least 70% secure jobs .


• Coach Participants: Provide resume support, interview prep, and job search guidance to help them land and retain employment.


• Conduct Employer & Participant Check-Ins: Maintain communication before, during, and after placement to ensure successful employment outcomes.


• Represent AgriEdge at Events: Promote the program at career fairs, trade shows, and networking events to expand employer connections.


• Track & Report Outcomes: Monitor employment success and ensure at least 70% of placed participants remain employed for 90 days .

Who You Are

• People-Focused: You are passionate about helping people build careers and succeed.


• Target-Driven: You thrive on hitting placement goals because they represent real job outcomes.


• Relationship-Builder: You know how to connect with employers and leverage your relationships to secure job opportunities


• Self-Starter: You take initiative, problem-solve, and work independently.

Qualifications

• Experience in establishing and nurturing professional contacts is required; experience in the agriculture sector is an asset.


• Sales and business development experience is required ; experience in agricultural sales or agricultural technology is an asset.


• Willingness to learn and understand labor market trends and employment opportunities within the agriculture industry.


• Experience representing programs at career fairs, trade shows, and employer networking events.


• Strong commitment to aligning with participants' long-term career goals and ensuring quality job placements .


• Experience in recruitment is considered an asset.


• A degree or diploma in a business-related field is considered an asset.


• Must have a valid license and reliable vehicle to be considered.