Job Description

TITLE

Business Development Lead

REPORTS TO

Executive Director

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None

OVERVIEW

Nova Scotia's boatbuilding and repair industry is poised for market growth and diversification. We're seeking a strategic and driven Business Development Lead to support efforts to expand into high-potential markets across Canada, the USA and Europe. This is a unique opportunity to represent a proud, innovative industry on a global stage and play a key role in shaping its future.

TERM OF EMPLOYMENT

Part-time contract with variable hours averaging 20 hours/week; full-time at trade shows, less in between. Approximately 2 years depending on start date of employment.

LOCATION

Hybrid: NSBA office in Halifax Regional Municipality + home office. The NSBA's office is expected to move within the next 1-2 months but will remain in HRM.

ORGANIZATION INFORMATION:

The Nova Scotia Boatbuilders Association (NSBA) is a nonprofit industry association that supports and represents the boatbuilding and repair industry in Canada's Maritime provinces as well as related industries. The organization engages in activities and programs on its own and in partnership with government, other nonprofits, education, and industry. For more information, visit nsboats.com.

RESPONSIBILITIES/ACCOUNTABILITIES

Note: This position requires the ability to work both independently and cooperatively, as some duties interconnect with work being done by other NSBA team members.

Market Intelligence & Strategy

- Identify and evaluate high-potential markets in Canada, the USA, and Europe for business development.

- Analyze trends and opportunities within the global marine sector to inform strategy and outreach.

Industry Representation & Market Development

- With other NSBA team members, plan trade show participation and small, targeted trade missions.

- Represent the Nova Scotia boatbuilding and repair industry at international trade shows and targeted trade missions.

- Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including buyers, suppliers, government partners, and industry organizations.

Lead Management & Tracking

- With other NSBA team members, develop and implement a process for tracking and managing business development leads from both digital sources (e.g., website inquiries) and in-person engagements.

- Provide follow-up and lead generation support between in-person events.

- Develop/identify/maintain a system to track relationship building and lead conversion for the local boatbuilding and repair industry.

Cross-Project Support

- Support other team members as needed, particularly on projects related to industry market development and diversification.

Administration / General

- Maintain clear records of market development activities, including lead development and outcome statistics.

- Prepare and submit activity and financial reports to the Executive Director as required.

- Keep records of expenses and provide these to the bookkeeper as needed.

- Work within established budgets.

- Ensure market development activities are welcoming and inclusive.

- Advise the Executive Director of any current or anticipated concerns.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Required

5+ years of experience in a role connected with the boatbuilding and repair industry in Canada's Maritime provinces and knowledge of its economic importance; specific knowledge of the types of boats built in the Maritime provinces and the companies building them is a significant asset. A degree in International Business, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of work experience and/or education. Strong understanding of market development strategies and stakeholder engagement. Ability to connect easily with people from different backgrounds. Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Gmail, and online web conferencing tools such as Zoom. Strong written and verbal English communication skills. Comfortable with public speaking and initiating contact with people in person, by phone, and electronically. Willing to work outside of normal working hours (see Working Conditions). Willingness to travel within Canada and internationally (see Working Conditions). Comfortable working independently and as part of a distributed team. Good organizational skills, including the ability to organize work so other NSBA team members can find project information if needed. Ability to work well under pressure and manage time effectively. Ability to behave in a way that is ethical and aligns with NSBA values. Access to a remote workspace with a reliable internet connection; a regular office space is available if preferred by the successful candidate (note: the office location is changing in fall 2025 but will still be in Halifax Regional Municipality)*.

Preferred

Languages in addition to English. Familiarity with lead management processes. Proven experience in business development, international trade, or industry promotion - ideally within the marine, manufacturing, or related sectors.

PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION

Employees are expected to maintain a high standard of work with attention to accuracy. Employees are expected to be polite and professional at all times with co-workers, NSBA members, and the public. Evaluations will be done after a three-month probationary period, then at the end of each twelve-month period after the initial start date.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Most of the work will be computer-based or involve travel; other activities may take place in a variety of settings. The NSBA's small team works closely together, virtually and in-person. There is flexibility in work location and scheduling, but employees must be accessible during their regular working hours. Employees are encouraged to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Physical and Environmental Demands

Extended periods of computer work and standing while working an exhibitor booth. A high degree of sensory inputs at trade shows and other events. Exposure to noise, dust, and chemical smells as part of industry visits. Industry visits may involve stairs and other structures that require good physical mobility.

Travel conditions may include long periods of driving/flying and transporting personal luggage and supplies. Attendance at meetings of varying duration is also required. This role does not have standard weekly hours; the Executive Director will work with the successful candidate to ensure hours average to about 20 hours/week with longer days at events such as trade shows and lighter weeks in between. On travel days, work may extend beyond 8 hours per day but this time is balanced with schedule adjustments or provided as time in lieu. Weekend work/travel may be required for trade shows or related activities.

Travel Demands

- Some industry site visits within NS and other Maritime provinces to learn about the local boatbuilding and marine repair industry and to build relationships with NSBA members;

- Frequent travel outside Nova Scotia / Canada for activities such as trade shows and targeted trade missions.

- Frequent overnight / multi-day travel

Mental Demands

Working trade shows and trade missions can require sustained energy outputs for multiple days. The work also involves external commitments to funding partners and industry members. Some projects may require working to fixed deadlines. Travel, especially international travel, can lead to stress especially when there are unplanned disruptions. This position involves coordinating market development activities in cooperation with other NSBA team members. This position also involves interacting with various audiences and it is essential that positive relationships are built and maintained.

HOURS, COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range: $32-$38/hour depending on qualifications x 20 hours/week average Occasional overtime that is offset with schedule flexibility / compensatory hours Three weeks paid vacation per year, pro-rated based on a 20 hour average workweek.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

HOW TO APPLY:

Please submit your CV/Resume and a brief cover letter stating the skills and approach you would bring to the position and why you are interested in the role.

Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Contact

:

Jan Fullerton, Executive Director

exec@nsboats.com

Job Types: Part-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 24 months

Pay: $32.00-$38.00 per hour

Expected hours: 5 - 40 per week

Application question(s):

Do you have 5+ years of experience in a role connected with boatbuilding and repair in Canada's Maritime provinces?
Language:

English (required)
Willingness to travel:

75% (required)
Work Location: In person