Business Development Coach

Job Title: Business Development Coach

Job Status: Full-time

Job Summary: Under general supervision, the Business Development Coach uses specialized knowledge of entrepreneurial challenges and needs to provide encouragement, support and individualized coaching for entrepreneurs, micro-entrepreneurs, and small businesses. Assesses business, evaluates goals and objectives, and provides guidance in establishing business and strategic plans. Works collaboratively with other program staff, partner organizations and business consultants to help clients establish and grow their business. May provide guidance and support to small businesses seeking to optimize their financial strategies and access the necessary funding for growth and development.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Assess and completes an initial review process of client’s current business structure and direction

Assist clients with the formulation and completion of goals, and techniques, creation of a strategic plan and the establishing, writing and/or enhancement of a structured business plan

Provide clients with information and referrals to various programs including training, partner services, mentoring relationships, and other services based on establish goals and objectives

Follow up on the various services the client was referred to ensure participation, measure outcomes, and monitor program compliance

Ensure that information on activities and services is collected and documented for accurate and timely reporting as required by the agency and funding sources

Meet all reporting requirements for all funding sources

Assist with identifying and recruiting business owners and entrepreneurs to the program

May provide one-on-one coaching to small business owners, offering comprehensive guidance on financial planning, budgeting and strategic financial planning

May conduct thorough financial assessments of client businesses to identify areas for improvement and potential opportunities for growth

May assist small business owners in navigating the application process for SSBCI Funding, ensuring that all necessary documentation and requirements are met in a timely and efficient manner

May develop and conduct workshops, webinars, and training sessions to educate small business owners on financial literacy, funding options, and best practices for maintaining financial health

May establish and maintain strong relationships with financial institutions, government agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to stay informed about funding opportunities and to advocate for the needs of the small business community

Operate standard office equipment and use required software applications

Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

Business planning and development challenges and effective measures to overcome obstacles

Strategic planning tactics and techniques

Skill in:

Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of various funding options available to small businesses, with a specific emphasis on SSBCI funding

Keep abreast of the latest developments and changes in the SSBCI program guidelines

Proficiency in financial analysis tools and software

Operating standard office equipment and using required software applications for program area and other applications, including Microsoft Office

Ability to:

Establish specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-specific goals and objectives

Incite enthusiasm; influence, motivate and persuade others to achieve desired outcomes without organizational authority

Partner with other functional areas to accomplish objectives

Facilitate meetings and ensure that all viewpoints, ideas, and problems are addressed

Objectively gather information, identify linkages and trends, and apply findings to assignments

Organize and prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines

Handle stressful situations and provide a high level of customer service in a calm and professional manner

Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

Maintain confidentiality of agency and client information

Ability to understand and speak Arabic or other language of the predominant service population preferred

Continuously monitor the financial progress of client business and provide ongoing support and guidance to ensure the effective implementation of financial strategies and the achievement of desired outcomes

Analytical mindset and strong problem-solving abilities to assess complex financial situations and provide strategic solutions

Educational/Previous Experience Requirements:

Minimum Degree Required:

Bachelor’s degree

Required Disciplines:

Business Management, Accounting, Finance or related field

~or~

Demonstrated successful experience establishing start-up business or operation or any equivalent combination of experience, education and/or training approved by Human Resources

Licenses/Certifications:

Licenses/Certifications Required at Date of Hire: None

Working Conditions:

Hours: Normal business hours, some additional hours may be required

Travel Required: Local travel between ACCESS facilities in Wayne and Macomb counties may be required.

Working Environment: Climate controlled office