General Business Counselor

General Business Counselor

This position is a senior-level professional role through which the Small Business Development Center's (SBTDC) counseling, training, research, and technical assistance services are provided to small business owners, would-be entrepreneurs, and individuals and firms developing new products, technologies, or markets. The position is expected to provide expert-level business advice and in-depth assistance to a sizable number of clients, both in the Charlotte office and elsewhere throughout an assigned multi-county geographic area. Position also includes group training design/facilitation and marketing/outreach activities.

The incumbent is expected to manage a large and varied client portfolio made up of small and medium-sized businesses, as well as pre-venture companies, providing guidance across all business disciplines. Counseling provided is expected to result in economic impact (business starts, revenue generation, sales growth, job creation, etc) and other reportable success stories. Position requires that a number of metrics be met, including a minimum of 948 hours of counseling activity per year. Incumbent will deliver at a minimum of two training events per year (fee-based and/or free), which includes marketing, planning, and/or delivering to target markets in support of the Regional Service Center Annual Work Plan.

Consultation The Senior Small Business Specialist is independently responsible for managing their client portfolio. This includes a thorough evaluation of complex issues facing clients and providing consultation based on their expertise. This responsibility includes direct client contact in one-on-one meetings and through telephone and written communications. It also includes the very substantial time that must be committed to adequately researching, preparing materials, and recommending courses of action to clients who are counseled. Provide advice and technical assistance relative to complicated, sensitive, and unique problems.

Professional Knowledge-Maintain an expert level of knowledge of program policies, procedures, technology, and best practices, specifically as it relates to the growth and management of businesses, serving as the local expert in this regard. Analyze and evaluate how issues apply to or impact stakeholders, including clients, management, or other strategic partners, and then succinctly distill and convey this information. Proactively be aware of changing economic conditions and understand how that might affect the organization or clients, and communicate that information accordingly.

Information Analysis / Decision Making Assess and resolve client issues using financial information, interviews, and other documentation to come up with the data necessary. Review and research multiple sources to support the resolution for his/her issue. Must be able to come up with a plan of action to help the client based on one's own experience and the information available. Applies sound judgment based on experience and training in this analysis and decision-making/problem resolution.

Communications Incumbent holds responsibility for proactively promoting the SBTDC throughout the multi-county area served by this center. This includes identifying the most appropriate venues, representing the SBTDC at those meetings and conferences, establishing and growing relationships with potential sources of referrals, and with prospective groups of clients. The incumbent also independently develops promotional materials and programs as deemed necessary for this region. The incumbent also represents the program nationally among industry associations as well as peer associations.

Program/Project Administration Much of the work is technically based and requires attention to detail and deadlines. Incumbent must exercise great care and discretion in assisting SBTDC's clients based on SBTDC policies and procedures. Absolute confidentiality of client information must be preserved. SBTDC reports must be completed in an accurate and timely manner. National certifications, such as EDFP and other professional development training courses, must be kept current in order to effectively administer the program.

Leadership The incumbent in this position is expected to be able to operate with a minimal level of supervision and instruction. He/she is required to assess the needs and benefits of various relationships, independently apply sound judgment, and have broad discretion in meeting the goals and responsibilities of this position and the organization as a whole. The incumbent must have the ability to handle multiple assignments, organize work, and establish priorities. Incumbent must possess and independently deploy strong skills in problem assessment and resolution, and be adept at researching and reviewing lengthy and complex documents.

Minimum Education/Experience - Bachelor's degree and one (1) year of experience related to the area of assignment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills and Experience - A bachelor's degree in business administration and a minimum of three years of relevant work experience, or five years of relevant work experience, are preferred. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions. Prior SBTDC experience highly preferred. The ideal candidate should have broad knowledge and experience in general business principles and procedures, as well as the ability to communicate, execute, and deploy solutions to overall business issues. Business ownership or business managerial experience is required. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential. Incumbent must have the ability to handle multiple assignments, organize work, and assign priorities with minimal supervision, and must be self-motivated. Public speaking experience is preferred, and the ability to interact with large groups of people is essential.