INDIANA SBDC CENTER BUSINESS ADVISOR

• JOB DESCRIPTION*

MISSION: The mission of the Indiana SBDC Network is to have a positive and measurable impact on the formation, growth, and sustainability of small businesses in Indiana, and to develop a strong entrepreneurial community.

REPORTS TO: The Regional SBDC Center Director

EDUCATION: A minimum of a Bachelors degree in business, accounting or related field is required. Master’s degree is a plus. Three years experience with progressively responsible positions in business and/or industry management and supervisory experience. Significant, successful small business ownership or management experience can be substituted for academic qualifications.

REQUIRED SKILLS:
• Demonstrated experience in counseling, consulting, or advising businesses

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Demonstrated experience with case and project management skills

• Experience in preparing and reviewing business plans and loan packages

• Experience with computer hardware and software productivity applications

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Provide small business assistance including one-to-one client counseling in the area of business plan development; analyze, prepare and structure financial statements such as cash flow projections, income statements and balance sheets; provide assistance in automated and manual record keeping systems; assist clients with market related issues such as advertising, promotional functions, market surveys and other related areas; provide assistance with loan applications.

• Assess the current needs and skills of individual entrepreneurs using a standardized assessment tool, advise an entrepreneur about the programs and partners which can best assist them in their development process, and create an action plan of assistance steps through the SBDC.

• Facilitate and make referrals between entrepreneurs and professional services providers, referring clients, as appropriate, to SBDC volunteer and independent contract consultants and other outside specialists for additional support services.

• Engage educational, technical assistance, and government partners. Many programs and partners in Indiana support or assist entrepreneurs. It is the role and responsibility of the SBDC Center Advisor to coordinate and engage their efforts in the process of building an entrepreneurial community.

• Engage in advocacy for small business interests by developing and promoting public awareness of SBDC programs and services.

• Work independently, is self-motivated, goal oriented, can meet deadlines and work as a team member on projects.

• Will work within the regional host institution, a contractual center of the Indiana SBDC Network.

• Travel throughout the geographic area served. Early morning and evening meetings may be required.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Abilities (must be prepared to demonstrate skills if requested)
• Experience in preparing/reviewing business plans and/or business loan packages;

• Experience with computer hardware and software (i.e. Excel, Word, PowerPoint, use of the Internet)

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
• Demonstrated experience in business consulting/counseling;

• Small business ownership or business management experience;

• Public speaking ability;

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills;

• Demonstrated ability to work harmoniously with co-workers and supervisors;

• Ability to work effectively with leaders in the private and public sectors.

If you have further questions please contact Linda Wood SBDC Regional Director or call 812-265-3127, ext 228.