Business Development Officer (Planning & Development Officer 1(A)-(B)-2(A)-(B))

About Us

The Department of Agriculture’s mandate is the development of competitive, sustainable and profitable agriculture and agri-business industries that contribute to the economic, environmental and social prosperity of Nova Scotia’s rural and urban communities. Our vision is of a Nova Scotia agriculture and agri-food industry that is diversified, market-focused and profitable. We envision an industry recognized for its adaptable, collaborative business approach.

The section of Sector Development within the Industry Development Branch serves the Department of Agriculture’s mission to grow Nova Scotia’s economy by focusing on strategic investments and the development of strategies and action plans. The section works collaboratively to connect people and organizations with the tools, resources and partnerships they need to drive new investment and value-added growth.

About Our Opportunity

The Business Development Officer supports the department in advancing business and industry development initiatives to improve the economic landscape of the province of Nova Scotia. This is achieved through participation in the development and implementation of industry projects, by working directly with agriculture and agri-food clients and establishing and maintaining a network of key industry stakeholders, while acting as an important source of industry knowledge.

Primary Accountabilities

The Business Development Officer has a client-focused approach to service delivery that begins with an understanding of the client’s needs and adapts their approach to deliver the best value possible.

This work includes:

• Proactively maintaining in-depth knowledge of the current agricultural landscape, technological developments and market trends and conditions.
• Organizing and implementing business development initiatives and activities that enhance business and/or industry capabilities.
• Counselling and advising clients, senior leadership and other stakeholders on business and sector development options and applying expert knowledge of the capacity building that is required for successful strategy implementation.
• Proactively maintaining contact with a diverse and robust portfolio of clients who are actively pursuing innovation, value-adding, commercialization and business growth and development activities.
• Working with confidential and sensitive business information and maintaining an in-depth knowledge of tools, resources and services available to agri-food clients.
• Utilizing business/industry knowledge and experience, industry and government networks and relevant Departmental/Divisional strategies and priorities to develop a proactive workplan.
• Leading and participating in investigating a broad range of business and sector development opportunities and challenges.
• Playing a key role in enlisting industry participation and support for new initiatives, strategies, programs and services.
• Working in concert with Sector Development and Innovation team members and other internal and external collaborators to identify the potential beneficiaries of market, technological or competitive intelligence.
• Preparing ministerial briefing materials and other communications.

Qualifications and Experience

You have a bachelor’s degree in a related field (such as Commerce, Business Administration, Economics, etc.) or equivalent and 1 year of related experience.

As the successful candidate, you are an innovative thinker who excels at working in a team environment as well as independently. You are an excellent communicator who is skilled in public speaking and building strong relationships with stakeholders. You have experience working with highly confidential and sensitive business information and you maintain an in-depth knowledge of tools, resources and services available to agri-food clients.

You have excellent interpersonal skills as well as an ability to set objectives and meet deadlines without direct day-to-day supervision.

In addition to the above, the following knowledge and experience is considered an asset:

• Project management experience within an economic development context
• In depth knowledge of the current agricultural landscape in Nova Scotia
• Client service
• Leading/facilitating strategic development initiatives
• Experience working within or in partnership with the public sector

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

This is an excellent career opportunity for many, and we do consider an equivalent combination of training, education, and experience. Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Working Conditions

• This job reports to the Manager, Research & Innovation.

• Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.

• At times, you may be required to work outside the normal hours of operation.

• Access to a reliable motor vehicle is essential.

Additional Information

This is a Term employment opportunity with an anticipated end date of July 3, 2026. The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• Countless career paths.
• Department Specific Flexible working schedules.