SBDC Business Advisor

Description

REPORTS TO: SBDC Director

BACKGROUND:  Chinese Mutual Aid Association (CMAA) is a non-profit organization that assists immigrants, refugees and low-income families in Chicago and its suburbs.  Founded in 1981 by ethnic Chinese refugees from Vietnam, the organization today has expanded to a staff of approximately three hundred employees who speak over twenty languages and assists immigrants from Asia, Africa, Europe, and Central and South America.  CMAA services include after-school youth programming, job training and placement for adults, elderly care for seniors, and the Illinois Small Business Development Center. 

JOB DESCRIPTION: The Illinois SBDC Business Advisor fosters a strong climate for small business growth by providing in-depth, confidential, and no cost business advising to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. The position of Business Advisor will be part time, dedicating seventy-five percent (75%) of their time providing business advice and twenty-five percent (25%) in reporting and other related activities. This position will be the primary business advisor for the center.

SPECIFIC DUTIES

• Provide and facilitate free, in-depth, confidential individual business analyses and referrals to appropriate resources to active and aspiring entrepreneurs 
• Develop relationships with new clients and key stakeholders including, but not limited to, Small Business Administration (SBA), banks, Chambers of Commerce, economic development organizations, trade groups, educational institutions, legislators, and host organizations
• Assist in the production of promotional materials for the center (e.g., flyers, newsletters, webinars, etc.)
• Consistently maintain client database with appropriate records 
• Assist in the completion of monthly and quarterly reporting
• Develop SBDC training programs and analyze impact on participants

Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• B.A. or B.S. degree in business, economics, accounting or equivalent field.
• Experience in business management and/or financial business analysis (banking) is preferred
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills
• Interpersonal skills for interacting effectively with a diverse clientele and the small business community
• Knowledge of computer applications (including Google Suite) for record keeping, web research, etc.
• Strong organizational skills and sharp attention to detail

PREFERRED ABILITIES

• Small Business Experience
• Managerial (Personnel & Program) Experience
• Financing/Lending
• Strong analytical and innovative skills
• Finance/ Accounting: Debt & Equity Finance
• Sales and Marketing
• Technology
• Collaboration
• Economic Development
• Multi-tasking

PM22