Director, Foreign Direct Investment

Position Overview

We welcome a highly organized, team-oriented, and communicative leader devoted to advancing Winnipeg's economic future. This executive role leads the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) division within Winnipeg Economic Development & Tourism, focusing on attracting and sustaining foreign investments to boost business growth and job creation. Operating collaboratively alongside teams across Economic Development, this director engages with senior diplomats, government officials, and business partners to elevate Winnipeg's and Manitoba's global economic standing.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily functions of the FDI team, mentoring and cultivating a culture of excellence while encouraging cooperation with other organizational departments.
• Create and implement strategic plans targeting key sectors to attract foreign investments, aligning with regional economic objectives in partnership with governmental and private entities.
• Contribute to the creation of national investment attraction initiatives and support frameworks for investment readiness in Winnipeg and Manitoba.
• Monitor team performance metrics, manage targets, and address challenges or conflicts, escalating issues appropriately.
• Administer human resources activities including recruitment, onboarding, and staff performance management within the FDI team.
• Encourage professional growth by identifying opportunities to expand team expertise and networks.
• Establish and nurture relationships with investors, business leaders, and international affiliates, representing the region at global forums and trade missions.
• Collaborate with federal and provincial agencies to secure funding, align trade strategies, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Plan and oversee national and international events aimed at investment attraction and retention, ensuring alignment with organizational strategies.
• Analyze global and local economic conditions, geopolitical shifts, and investment opportunities to inform strategic decisions.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of Canada's international trade agreements and investment policies.
• Engage with government stakeholders to influence investment-friendly policies and navigate political landscapes skillfully.
• Set and review clear success metrics for FDI activities, providing regular reports to senior leadership and relevant boards.
• Manage the FDI department's budget to optimize resource utilization and return on investment.
• Lead the development and coordination of Market Action Plans across various global regions in support of organizational goals.
• Ensure FDI initiatives meet targets in job creation, capital investment, and economic impact.
• Leverage local industry insights to provide expert advice, services, and connections to clients.
• Collaborate with the Economic Development leadership to provide seamless client and partner engagement and oversee aftercare for foreign-owned enterprises.

Required Knowledge and Skills

• Proven leadership aptitude to guide and hold accountable diverse teams spanning international markets.
• Strong results-driven mindset with experience managing performance in dynamic, fast-paced settings.
• Comprehensive understanding of international business, investment strategies, and economic development within Canada.
• Fluency in languages relevant to FDI target markets, excellent negotiating, presentation, and diplomacy skills.
• Experience delivering high-level presentations to senior executives and government officials both nationally and internationally.
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to engage effectively across diverse cultural and business environments.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical capabilities and tactical execution skills.
• Exceptional networking skills and established connections within international business and government sectors.
• Expertise navigating municipal, provincial, and federal government processes and communication.
• Up-to-date awareness of international affairs, FDI trends, and related Canadian programs and tools.
• Capability to identify and manage risks related to reputation, politics, and compliance in global engagements.
• Familiarity with customer relationship management systems and data analytics tools.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in business, economics, international relations, or related field.
• Minimum of five years in leadership roles within economic development, foreign direct investment, or international business sectors.
• Demonstrated success managing investment attraction initiatives or projects.

Working Conditions

• Frequent international travel required.
• This is a full-time role based at the office.
• Willingness to work outside regular hours to accommodate international time zones and event timings.
• Occasional physical tasks, such as moving office materials and setting up meeting spaces.

Diversity and Inclusion

We champion diversity across age, gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and abilities, recognizing that varied perspectives foster innovation and community growth. We provide accommodations during the hiring process upon request, ensuring confidentiality without affecting application status.

Application Details

To apply, candidates may submit their resume and cover letter via the Work in Manitoba portal or by emailing directly to the organization's careers address before 9:00 AM on October 26, 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.