The German American Chamber of Commerce® of the Midwest (GACC Midwest/ AHK USA-Chicago), headquartered in Chicago with a branch office in Detroit, was founded in 1963. GACC Midwest is an integral part of the network of German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHKs) with 140 offices in 92 countries around the globe. Our continuing mission is to promote and assist in the expansion of bilateral trade and investment between Germany and the United States, especially the Midwest. Our organization combines elements of a trade commission, a membership association, and a professional consultancy-quite a unique concept in international trade promotion.

GACC Midwest is seeking a full-time Consultant, Trade Missions who will support the programs, initiatives and services of the Consulting Services Department. A focus of this role will be executing trade mission projects between Germany and the US across a wide range of industries and locations.

RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• In close coordination with Directors and other colleagues, organize and execute all phases of trade mission projects, which frequently include some form of governmental financing. This includes:

  • Conduct thorough market research for each Trade Mission topic/industry focus, including identifying key market players as well as trends and emerging technologies in both the US and Germany - Synthesize gathered information into market research reports per company standards - Cooperate with external partners on participant acquisition as appropriate - Arrange business meetings between trade mission participants and target business partners (this entails direct outreach via email and phone) - Maintain and document communication with all internal and external project stakeholders - Coordinate logistics such as travel arrangements as appropriate

• For trade missions and other projects that have an event component (such as a business conference or networking reception), support additional tasks such as: - Identify topics of interest within the industry field - Research suitable speakers and invite them to participate - Develop targeted promotional campaigns in close coordination with internal PR & Marketing department, including drafting flyers, website text, mailing campaigns and targeted social media posts - Acquire sponsors for events as appropriate - Work closely with internal Events team on logistical matters such as venue, catering, A/V, etc. and ensure that expenditures are within program budget

• Create proposals for trade missions and similar projects and assist Director with contracts

• Advise companies on their US market entry by researching potential markets, sales channels and business partners

• Answer general trade inquiries and support the ongoing activities of GACC Midwest, including participating in GACC Midwest member events, cross-selling services, supporting other projects as needed, etc.

• Identify and engage prospective customers and project participants using business directories, following up on leads from existing clients, participating in organizations and associations, and attending relevant trade shows and conferences

• Keep informed of policy issues and technological developments in key industries and strive to continually increase knowledge base

• Attend meetings, trade shows, conferences, conventions, and seminars to network with key partners and clients

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline is required
• 1-5 years of work experience in a related field
• Previous experience supporting government-financed projects, with knowledge of proper documentation and reporting requirements
• Strong German and English language skills, both written and verbal
• Excellent communication skills; comfortability with public speaking would be advantageous
• Experience working on multiple projects concurrently
• Experience with market research strongly preferred
• Excellent attention to detail, thoroughness and a high level of accountability are required
• Self-motivated and highly dedicated; the ideal candidate will have the mindset of noticing what should be done and taking appropriate steps to ensure successful completion
• Strong interest in learning about new technologies
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Ability to build and maintain working relationships in the AHK network and with key industry partners, multipliers & clients
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel & PowerPoint
• Experience in one or more industry sectors that are of particular importance to GACC Midwest strongly desired, including machinery and automation, automotive, renewable energy/energy efficiency technologies, food and beverage, or medical devices
• Experience with both German and American business environments strongly desired
• Periodic overnight travel in the US and Germany is required