This is a grant funded position and continuation is dependent upon availability of funds.

POSITION PURPOSE

The Navarro College Small Business Development Center (NCSBDC) provides counseling, training and information to small businesses, as defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and to persons aspiring to entrepreneurship. The program is based in Corsicana, Texas with a service area that includes Navarro, Ellis, Freestone and Limestone counties. The program also maintains satellite office in other counties serviced. The NCSBDC is a cooperative agreement between Navarro College and the SBA. Continuation of NCSBDC services is contingent upon continued annual funding from State and Federal resources. This position will office primarily at the Corsicana Location but will be required to be in other satellite offices as needed.

GENERAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Serve as a consultant to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs primarily in the NCSBDC service area. Help clients learn how to start a business, develop business and marketing plans, determine capital needs, conduct short and long-term planning, project cash flow, prepare and analyze financial statements, conduct business research and assist in the preparation of loan packages. Provide individual and group counseling and training for small business owners, managers and aspiring entrepreneurs in areas which include, but not limited to, business planning, financial management and networking. Conduct business research through online subscription databases to meet information needs of clients in areas such as industry and market research. Understand the center's management information system and assist in preparation of quarterly reports using the system, document counseling activity as required by SBA's "Program Announcement" and the North Texas Small Business Development Centers (NTSBDC) Network. Maintain a state of mobility and visibility so as to be responsive to clients, organizations, and agencies within the four counties served. Conduct follow-up meetings to monitor their progress, and to discuss their specific needs. Maintain accurate records, develop and implement satisfaction reports for the evaluation of client success. Attend professional training as required by Navarro College, the North Texas SBDC and SBA. Perform other duties assigned by the Program Director. Prepare quarterly success stories as required by NTSBDC. Coordinate with Director and other advising staff to ensure quality feedback is given to SBDC clients. Demonstrate knowledge of artificial intelligence tools and emerging technologies, with the ability to identify and apply appropriate AI solutions to improve small business operations, marketing, productivity, research, and other client goals. Perform other related duties as assigned. Community Outreach & Economic Development Develop and maintain relationships with chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, financial institutions, community organizations, local governments, and other business-support organizations throughout the NCSBDC service area. Represent NCSBDC at community events, networking opportunities, business expos, workshops, and other outreach activities. Conduct proactive outreach to small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs throughout Navarro, Ellis, Freestone, and Limestone counties. Identify opportunities to increase awareness and utilization of NCSBDC services within the service area. Training & Programming Develop, coordinate, and deliver workshops, webinars, seminars, and other educational programs based on the needs of local entrepreneurs and small businesses. Collaborate with NCSBDC staff and community partners to develop programming that addresses emerging small business needs. Client & Program Management Maintain an active caseload of small business clients and provide timely follow-up and ongoing consulting. Track client progress, outcomes, and milestones and identify opportunities for additional assistance or referrals. Collect and analyze client and program data to support SBA, NTSBDC, and NCSBDC reporting requirements. Identify successful client outcomes and assist with developing quarterly success stories.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Excellent writing and speaking skills required. Applicants should be able to work and take initiative without close supervision, deal with a wide variety of individuals and organizations and maintain confidentiality. Ability to work independently with minimum supervision. Ability to network with business communities. Be a self-starter and self-motivated individual and be a team player. Willingness to work within the philosophical framework of Navarro College. Willingness to follow the SBDC rules and regulations and appropriate guidelines of SBDC policies and procedures. Availability to attend and participate in networking events within the service area. May need to attend some evening events when warranted.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

Required Associate's degree. Minimum of three (3) years of related professional experience as related to small businesses in any combination of areas such as: consultant to small business in areas of management or technical skills, staff member within a business or economic development organization, or management and business planning experience in the private sector. Will take into consideration a combination of work experience and educational background that will help fulfill the duties and responsibilities of this position. Preferred Bachelor's or Master's degree. Experience with Microsoft Excel and Word. Experience in business banking, loan applications and SBA programs. Bilingual - Spanish speaking, reading and writing.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Variances from regular working hours may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of the position. Busy working environment with numerous interruptions.

SALARY :

Commensurate with Education and Experience (This is a 12-month position to be paid over 12 months)