Deputy Administrator for Business Development - Columbus, MS

Deputy Administrator for Business Development

Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway Development Authority Title: Deputy Administrator for Business 
Development Reports To: Administrator

Job Summary:    The Deputy Administrator for Business Development is responsible for advancing 
economic growth, promoting trade and industry, and fostering partnerships along the 
Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway. This position involves engaging with businesses, governmental 
agencies, and community stakeholders to maximize the waterway’s role in regional development, 
transportation efficiency, and job creation. The Deputy Administrator will be required to live in 
the area or surrounding area of Columbus Mississippi.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development and Marketing:
•    Develop and execute strategic initiatives to attract and retain businesses utilizing the 
Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway for shipping, logistics, and trade.
•    Promote the waterway's capabilities and advantages to domestic and international 
markets.
•    Represent the waterway at trade shows, conferences, and other industrial events.

Stakeholder Engagement:
•    Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including port authorities, economic 
development agencies (local, state, and power companies), and government entities.
•    Act as a liaison between businesses and regulatory bodies to facilitate seamless 
operations.

Economic Analysis and Planning:
•    Conduct market research to identify new business opportunities and growth sectors.
•    Prepare reports and presentations for stakeholders, highlighting the economic impact and 
potential of the waterway.

Operational and Administrative Support:
•    Collaborate with the Administrator to develop and implement policies and programs aligned with 
the organization's mission.
•    Oversee marketing budgets and ensure compliance with funding requirements and
regulations.

Qualifications
Education:  Minimum  of  Bachelor’s  degree  in  Business  Administration,  Marketing, Economics, 
Transportation, or a related field.
Experience:  Ideally, candidates will have 3–5 years of experience. in business development, 
economic development, government relations, logistics, or related field. Experience with inland 
waterways or transportation systems is highly desirable. Candidates with more experience may be 
considered.
Skills:
•    Strong leadership and project management abilities.
•    Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
•    Analytical and strategic thinking capabilities.
•    Proficiency in using technology and software for marketing, reporting, and analysis.

Knowledge:
•    Understanding of the logistics and transportation industry, particularly inland 
waterways.
•    Familiarity with economic development principles and funding mechanisms.

Work Environment and Travel:
•    Frequent travel within the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway region and occasional travel to 
national and/or international locations.
•    Office-based role with occasional field visits to ports, terminals, and industrial 
sites.

Compensation:
•    Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
•    Benefits package includes health insurance, retirement contributions, and professional 
development opportunities.

How to Apply:
Interested parties should email (preferred) or send their cover letter, resume, and salary 
requirements to the Administrator, Mitch Mays at mays@tenntom.org by 5:00pm on Friday, May 30, 
2025, to be considered.
Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway Development Authority PO Drawer 671
Columbus MS 39703
Office: (662) 328-3286
www.tenntom.org
The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway Development Authority is a four-state compact ratified by the U.S. 
Congress to promote the development and use of the Tenn-Tom Waterway. The member states are 
Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee. The mission of the Authority is to
realize the economic potential of the Tenn-Tom Waterway within its four-state corridor.