Back Small Business Development Specialist

Job Overview: The Small Business Development Specialist is a part-time position that will support the continued development of the IRC's Small Business Program. This position supports IRC business counselors in providing one-on-one business advice on start-up assistance, financial capability, selling online, managing a business, and more to aspiring and existing entrepreneurs. The program focuses on enhancing partnerships with local organizations, small businesses, and the entrepreneurial community to aid refugee, immigrant, and low-income communities. Assistance includes financial assistance and access to capital; contracting and procurement; marketing, operations, business development, and exporting; and industry-specific training.

Major Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Assist the Microenterprise Supervisor and Business Counselors with program recruitment efforts by developing and distributing flyers and brochures and engaging with community organizations and local businesses.
• Provide program orientations and trainings to individuals and groups.
• Work with refugee entrepreneurs to strengthen their business plans, develop marketing materials, and provide other supportive services as needed.
• Conduct business-related research in key industries.
• Maintain case files for all program clients.
• Enter data into the program’s information data systems and internal tracking systems.
• Provide general administrative support and maintain accurate records of Microenterprise Development program activities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

Education: Bachelors degree in business, finance, or related field of study preferred.

Work Experience:

• Relevant professional experience in banking, lending, CDFI, or small business development required; minimum of 2 years’ experience strongly preferred.
• Experience working with refugee and/or immigrant populations strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to work with consideration and respect for cross-cultural differences.
• Graphic design and/or web development experience strongly preferred.

Demonstrated Skills & Competencies:

• Strong relationship building, diplomacy, and networking skills; ability to effectively build internal and external relationships.
• Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively in a multi-cultural environment.
• Excellent organizational, record-keeping, and analytical skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy in work product.
• Ability to work independently, be a self-starter and maintain responsibility for multiple tasks.
• Fluent in English, both spoken and written; proficiency in language(s) spoken by client group is desired.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook); ability to use the internet and other digital tools for data entry, research, and problem-solving purposes.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a personal, insured vehicle.

Working Environment:

• A combination of standard office environment, remote work, and ‘field’ time within the service delivery area to perform the above outlined responsibilities.
• Occasional domestic (non-local) travel required; up to 10%.
• May require occasional weekend and/or evening work.

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Posted pay ranges apply to US-based candidates. Ranges are based on various factors including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget. Exact offers are calibrated by work location, individual candidate experience and skills relative to the defined job requirements.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement: In accordance with IRC’s duty to provide and maintain a workplace that is free of known hazards and our commitment to safeguard the health of our employees, clients, and communities, IRC requires new hires to furnish proof of vaccination against COVID-19 in order to be considered for any in-office or hybrid positions. All IRC US offices require full vaccination to attend any in-office functions (e.g., meetings, trainings).

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity: IRC is committed to building a diverse organization and a climate of inclusivity. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who can demonstrate that they can contribute to this goal.

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

US Benefits: We offer a comprehensive and highly competitive set of benefits. In the US, these include: 10 sick days, 10 US holidays, 20-25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure, medical insurance starting at $120 per month, dental starting at $7 per month, and vision starting at $5 per month, FSA for healthcare and commuter costs, a 403b retirement savings plans with immediately vested matching, disability & life insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program which is available to our staff and their families to support counseling and care in times of crisis and mental health struggles.