Manager of Retail Partnerships

Invest Nova Scotia; Halifax; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A provincial economic development organization in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is seeking a Manager of Retail Partnerships to enhance the reach of local products within retail channels. This role emphasizes building relationships with retailers, supporting businesses in packaging and market readiness, and overseeing promotional activities to strengthen local economies. Candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree and at least five years of relevant experience, alongside skills in strategic thinking and effective communication. An attractive benefits package is offered, promoting work-life balance and professional growth.

Benefits

Defined benefit pension plan

Health and dental coverage

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in retail partnerships or business development.
• Experience facilitating product listings and market readiness.
• Proficient in mentoring businesses for retail growth.

Responsibilities

• Expand reach of NSL products across retail channels.
• Maintain relationships with existing retailers.
• Oversee NSL retailer directory and merchandising activities.

Skills

Relationship building

Strategic mindset

Effective communication

Leadership experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or related field

Job description

Drive growth. Fuel innovation. Shape the future of Nova Scotia.

Invest Nova Scotia empowers businesses of all sizes to leverage our province’s natural advantages and deliver world-class solutions for Canada and global markets. Through our focus on three key areas of economic growth: start-up and venture capital, scale up and export, and investment attraction, we’re helping Nova Scotia become an economic success story. Together, we turn local potential into lasting prosperity.

As a provincial crown corporation reporting to the Department of Growth and Development, our team is as innovative and energetic as the clients we serve. We are a client and people-centric organization, and we care deeply about the work we do, guided by our values and our passion to help the companies we work with grow and succeed.

Job Opportunity

Manager of Retail Partnerships (term position, ending March 2027)

This term position is delivered through a collaborative partnership between Invest Nova Scotia and the Department of Growth and Development. You’ll be part of Invest Nova Scotia’s team while working closely with the Department to support delivery of the Nova Scotia Loyal (NSL) program.

NSL is an economic development program promoting local growers, harvesters, crafters and manufacturers to create a steady, loyal demand for local products so Nova Scotia businesses can grow and thrive. NSL helps shoppers more easily identify local products and provides consumer incentives through partnerships with industry associations to incentivize Nova Scotians to explore and shop locally made products.

NSL is creating a movement so we can all be more thoughtful about the way we spend our dollars – building demand for and consumption of local products to put more money directly into the hands of local producers.

What You’ll Do

In this role, you will help expand the reach of NSL products across major retail channels. This position is responsible for maintaining strong partnerships with existing retailers while managing relationships with purchasing teams to support new product listings and in‑store opportunities.

In addition to retail partnership development, the role provides hands‑on mentorship to NSL–approved businesses as they prepare for retail growth, including packaging, labelling, and food safety guidance. The role also oversees the NSL retailer directory and coordinates merchandising activities and program collateral to strengthen product visibility and support wholesale growth across the province.

What We’re Looking For

You have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field—such as Business Administration, Marketing, Commerce, Economics, Agricultural Business, or another related discipline—and at least five (5) years of experience in a similar or related role involving retail partnerships, business development, supplier support, or market readiness work. Previous leadership or team coordination experience is considered a strong asset.

You’re a strong relationship builder who enjoys working with a diverse range of partners and stakeholders. You demonstrate sound judgment, decisiveness, and a strategic mindset, along with the ability to lead through change and manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

You are an effective communicator who is comfortable collaborating across teams, organizations, and industry partners, and you bring a practical, solutions oriented approach to supporting business growth. Above all, you’re passionate about strengthening Nova Scotia’s local economy and helping build meaningful connections between consumers and local producers.

What We Offer

We offer a people‑focused rewards package designed to support your well‑being and work/life balance. Our defined benefit pension plan, robust Blue Cross health and dental coverage, and Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provide comprehensive support for you and your family. You’ll also have access to professional development opportunities, mentorship, and the chance to work with innovative, emerging companies in Nova Scotia. All to help you build a fulfilling career while maintaining a balanced life.

Explore More

investnovascotia.ca

We Value Diversity

Invest Nova Scotia is committed to embracing diversity and fostering a workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from Black and African Nova Scotians, Indigenous Peoples, racialized individuals, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, immigrants, veterans, persons living with disabilities, and women. If you identify as part of one of these groups, we encourage you to self‑identify in your cover letter or resume.

If you require accommodation at any point during the hiring process, please let us know.

This role is based in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Closing Date

Sunday, February 15, 2026

Competition #

25-INS-13

How to Apply

Please send your resume and cover letter as a single PDF via e‑mail to [e-mail], including the competition number in the subject line. In your cover letter, be sure to explain how your experience and skills align with this role.

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Final candidates will undergo pre‑employment screening as part of the hiring process.