Business Development Officer (Planning & Develop Off 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 takes a client-focused approach, starting with a strong understanding of each client’s needs and tailoring support to deliver the greatest value.

This work includes:

• Stay informed on the agricultural sector, including market trends, emerging technologies, and industry developments.
• Plan and deliver business development initiatives that strengthen businesses and support industry growth.
• Provide advice and guidance to clients, senior leadership, and stakeholders on business and sector development opportunities, including the steps needed to successfully implement strategies.
• Build and maintain relationships with a diverse portfolio of clients pursuing innovation, value-added processing, commercialization, and growth.
• Handle confidential business information with professionalism and discretion, while maintaining strong knowledge of available programs, tools, and services for agri-food clients.
• Develop and implement a proactive workplan aligned with industry needs, government priorities, and departmental strategies.
• Lead or support the exploration of business and sector opportunities and challenges.
• Engage industry partners to encourage participation in new programs, initiatives, and services.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to identify businesses that could benefit from market insights, technology, or competitive intelligence.
• Prepare briefing materials and communications for senior leadership and government officials.

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, Sector Development
• 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 March 31, 2027. 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.
• A Dynamic, client-focused office environment where service excellence and teamwork are our focus.