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University of Louisiana at Lafayette

SBDC Center Director

University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Lafayette, Louisiana, United States, 70595


The SBDC Center Director is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and ensuring alignment with the goals of the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC) program. This role involves developing strategic plans, managing financial and performance reports, providing business counseling, training, and advocating for the local small business community. The Director will also supervise staff, foster partnerships, and ensure compliance with grants and financial reporting. The ideal candidate will combine leadership skills with experience in small business development and program management.Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Develop and implement a strategic plan consistent with the goals and strategies of the state LSBDC program.Ensure the accuracy and financial compliance of multiple accounts related to the Center’s operations.Maintain an accounting system to track expenses from various accounts.Collaborate with the University’s Sponsored Programs and Office of Research on grant proposal development and compliance.Prepare and submit quarterly and annual reports on center activities and performance.Input timely and accurate counseling data into the Center’s client information management system (IC).Supervise the maintenance and accuracy of client records and data.Evaluate and measure the effectiveness and impact of the Center’s programs and services.Recruit, select, and evaluate employees, including business advisors and support staff.Supervise staff in their counseling, training, and reporting duties.Utilize data analytics to manage center operations and strategically serve the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem.Promote staff development through continuous professional training and education opportunities.Provide free, in-depth, confidential business consultations and refer clients to appropriate resources.Plan and market cost-effective training programs on topics relevant to small business start-ups and growth.Recruit private, public, and government entities to offer voluntary consulting and training services.Develop a robust resource network to help achieve program objectives.Facilitate the transfer of university-based knowledge to the small business community.Provide a minimum of 600 hours of consulting within the small business ecosystem.Promote the SBDC program through community presentations and events, advocating for small business needs.Build relationships with stakeholders such as the SBA, host institutions, banks, chambers of commerce, trade groups, and legislators.Develop and manage advertising, promotional, and marketing materials for the program.Attend regional and state meetings and conferences as a representative of the SBDC.Develop and deliver reports and special services as requested by the SBA, LED, and LSBDC State Office.Support research projects related to small businesses and disseminate findings to the community.Engage in LSBDC Network Accreditation processes to ensure exceptional performance and adherence to standards.Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:- Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field.- OR a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field and 7 years of experience in business ownership or operations will substitute for the Master’s degree.Preferred Qualifications:- Experience in small business development, consulting, or advising in a multi-faceted business environment.Skills, Abilities, Knowledge:- Consultation/Advising Skills – ability to effectively analyze, interpret, and coach clients from various industries on complex business concepts, including all facets of the business planning process.- Time Management – ability to strategically manage priorities, timelines, deadlines, and details under pressure.- Technical Capability – proficiency in fundamental office and computer equipment and software such as Microsoft Office Suite, CIC platforms, and cloud-based applications.- Leadership Skills – ability to influence, motivate, and elevate others, knowing when to lead and when to follow.- Emotional Intelligence – ability to recognize and discern emotions to adapt to dynamic environments and collaborative teams.- Communication Skills – knowledge of English language structure, proper grammar, professional etiquette, and proficiency in website content management, digital marketing, social media networks, and blog engagement.- Business Insight – ability to analyze, understand, and navigate business situations for positive outcomes.

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