The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research · 9 hours ago
SVRA Research & Communications Coordinator
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research - Danville, VA 24540
Full-time
Hybrid
Entry, Mid Level
2+ years expThe Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) serves as a regional catalyst for economic transformation. The Research & Communications Specialist leads data-driven storytelling and analysis to support regional economic development, combining market research, business intelligence, and strategic communication to strengthen recruitment efforts.
Education
Responsibilities
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
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
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
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Economics, Business Analytics, Public Administration, or related field (Master's preferred)
2+ years of experience in marketing, journalism, analytics, or economic development
Strong writing, editing, and presentation skills—comfortable translating data into persuasive messages
Demonstrated success in digital communications, social media and web content management
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, social media tools, and content management systems (WordPress, Joomla, etc.)
Creative thinker with an analytical mindset; collaborative, adaptable, and organized
Organized, deadline-driven, and comfortable balancing multiple projects while working in a team driven environment
Preferred
Familiarity with data visualization or analytics tools is a plus
Benefits
Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage with lower-than-expected costs
Participate in the Virginia Retirement System to save for their future
Company
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves as a regional catalyst for economic transformation.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Tim Robertson
Chief Operating Officer-Manufacturing Advancement
Recent News
2025-07-22
2025-05-02
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