Detailed Job Description - Georgia Small Business Development ...

THE GEORGIA SBDC NETWORK
JOB DESCRIPTION
BUSINESS CONSULTANT
A Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Business Consultant is a public service
faculty position responsible for providing counseling and delivering programs to
individuals, businesses, communities, organizations, and other public agencies in their
assigned geographic territory. This charge requires a broad base of business
knowledge, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to effectively manage multiple
projects simultaneously. These duties require the integration of business theory and
practice, thus necessitating professional development activities. Multi-county travel is
required.
Duties and Responsibilities
Provide high quality individual instruction to entrepreneurs, business owners, and
business managers. Analyze situations, make recommendations, and educate
clients with regard to business plans, market feasibility, financial viability,
operations management, and legal structures, to name but a few topics.
Maintain an appropriate level and mix of clients as noted by annual goals and
strategic plan objectives.
Develop and deliver high quality business training programs that are responsive
to the needs of the business community served. Generate curricula for business
programs, seminars, conferences, etc. for the local business interests.
Determine topics, agendas, instructors, instructional materials, location, time and
other resources required. Create and produce instructional materials. Serve as
an instructor of business training programs and secure qualified outside
instructors, as needed. Effectively market business training programs within
assigned communities, so as to meet annual goals.
Develop specific and relevant area(s) of expertise within the arena of business
development. Apply this knowledge through new training programs, consulting
tools, research projects, and/or other business assistance programs.
Direct clients to other appropriate sources of business information and
assistance. Disseminate pertinent information to the business community via
various media.
Serve as an advocate of business development, expansion and retention in the
area, thereby becoming a visible leader in the local business community. Work
collaboratively with private-sector businesses, other economic development
assistance units of the University System, and other units of State Government to
further the economic well-being of Georgia's citizens.

Engage in public relations activities such as, speeches, presentations, active
committee participation, and direct discussions. Relevant audiences include
bankers, colleges and universities, chambers of commerce, economic
development authorities, main street coordinators, government agencies, local
political offices, civic organizations, and local media.
Assist in the continued development, implementation, and updating of the
organization's strategic plan. Ensure that organizational goals and objectives are
accomplished in a timely and thorough manner. Work with colleagues to develop
and deploy annual action plans that align with the organizational strategic plan,
are tailored to meeting the specific small business needs within the assigned
geography, and capitalize on the skills of SBDC personnel. Prepare individual
work plans, including professional development initiatives, which align with area
office objectives.
Support organizational improvement efforts through active involvement on
internal committees or special projects, as directed by the state office.
Seek and apply for grants relevant to entrepreneurship and business
development. Initiate co-sponsorship of programs with private businesses,
economic development organizations, and other government entities.
Participate in meeting area office and special project revenue generating goals
as outlined in area office action plans and individual workplans.
Document activities via Client Information System (CIS) in a timely, accurate, and
comprehensive manner. Maintain adequate client files as per SBA and SBDC
guidelines.
Perform all responsibilities efficiently and effectively within assigned area office.
Ensure that administrative policies are followed, that programs are innovative
and responsive, and that top quality services are delivered. Utilize client and
management feedback in striving for continuous improvement. Maintain positive,
professional relations with other institutions.
Represent the Area Director when required.
Qualifications
Masters degree in Business or related field. Applicable experience of three years
necessary.
Effective 7/1/08