This role is based onsite in Danville, Virginia.
About IALR
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) serves as a regional catalyst for economic transformation. The mission will be accomplished through applied research, advanced learning, economic development, advanced manufacturing, and conference services. Driving Economic Transformation is at the heart of everything we do at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. We discover breakthroughs, create opportunity, grow innovation, power progress, and host greatness. Each of our divisions plays a critical role in daily preserving and delivering this mission.
About the SVRA
The Southern Virginia Regional Alliance (SVRA) tells the story of a region on the rise. Representing the City of Danville and the counties of Halifax, Mecklenburg, Patrick, and Pittsylvania, SVRA drives regional growth through business recruitment, marketing, and strategic partnerships. Working alongside the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) and local economic development teams, SVRA helps global companies discover what makes Southern Virginia a smart place to invest, build, and thrive.
About the Role
The Research & Communications Specialist leads data-driven storytelling and analysis to support regional economic development. This role combines market research, business intelligence, and strategic communication to strengthen recruitment efforts and elevate Southern Virginia’s brand. The position involves collecting and interpreting complex data, crafting insights for executive decision-making, and translating findings into compelling visuals and narratives that position the region as a premier location for investment and talent.
Key Responsibilities:
- Research & Analysis
- Track regional, state, and national trends in target industries (advanced manufacturing, logistics, materials, energy, etc.).
- Maintain records and create reports in Salesforce.
- Collect, analyze, and publish data on demographics, workforce, and business assets.
- Develop economic profiles for the region and localities, including demographics and econometric data.
- Build and maintain a dynamic database of regional companies, service providers, and leadership.
- Benchmark peer regions and identify opportunities for competitive positioning.
- Prepare clear, visual reports and dashboards to guide business and workforce recruitment decisions.
- Communications & Marketing
- Transform research into compelling stories through infographics, profiles, and digital campaigns.
- Manage and grow SVRA’s digital presence (website, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, X/Twitter, Constant Contact).
- Collaborate on branding and marketing campaigns, ensuring data supports messaging.
- Develop newsletters, success stories, regional updates, and partner communications.
- Support media outreach and regional marketing initiatives.
- Evaluate campaign performance and recommend improvements.
- Collaboration & Engagement
- Partner with local economic developers, workforce organizations, higher education institutions, and state/federal agencies.
- Promote SVRA assets to existing and prospective industries within the region.
- Provide research support for business recruitment, site selection, and workforce projects.
- Assist with events, prospect visits, and regional briefings.
- Support partner organizations and SVRA Board activities.
Work Location
We are looking for staff to work onsite in Danville, VA with the ability to work remotely as business needs allow.
