Asian Regional Office Representative

The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) is seeking a professional services consultant to provide full-time representation in Asia, focused primarily on Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, and India. The contractor will recruit foreign direct investment to Mississippi and promote the export of Mississippi products to Asia. The contractor must be based in one of the focused countries and be willing to travel to other Asian countries as approved by the Authority. The contractor will focus on recruiting Asian firms in the automotive, aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing sectors, as well as other industries. The contractor will also work on behalf of the MDA and Mississippi businesses to expand market opportunities for the export of Mississippi products and services. Some key responsibilities of the contractor include: • Developing knowledge of Mississippi assets and developing a recruitment plan and an export promotion plan • Engaging in a proactive program of outreach to Asian companies to promote the state to potential investors • Assisting the Authority with qualified appointments for up to two annual investment missions to Asia • Providing investment leads to the Authority that arise from the Contractor’s network of contacts and target sector research in Asia • Meeting with the headquarters of Asian companies with investment in Mississippi • Attending relevant industry events in Asia • Participating in relevant SEUS-Japan, Select USA events, chambers of commerce conferences, and industrial association meetings in Asia • Providing ongoing support and advice to the Authority regarding market opportunities, economic and political developments, and promotion strategies in Asia.