Small Business Specialist

This position is responsible for providing support to small businesses, and entrepreneurs. Under the general guidance of the Deputy Director of Business Services, provides counseling services and assistance to companies and individuals looking to invest in Flint.

• Maintains a record of all small business ventures of 100 jobs or less in the community.
• Meets with business owners and entrepreneurs regularly to provide technical assistance for a diverse catalog of challenges including but not limited to navigating policies and procedures within the municipality.
• Serves as advocate and liaison for small business development opportunities locally, regionally, and statewide. 
• Researches and makes recommendations regarding the creation of programs/policies to address systemic barriers that entrepreneurs/small businesses face in Flint.
• Maintains a relationship with non-profit agencies, government programs and philanthropic organizations (throughout the nation) focused on assisting entrepreneurs/ small businesses; maintains appropriate records relative to these activities as required.
• Maintains a working relationship with small businesses and micro-loan lenders.
• Works closely with external partners to maintain and grow Flint’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
• Assists in the interactions of external programs/organizations and the department to market the City and its neighborhoods to prospective businesses.
• Assists various economic development agencies in formulating and establishing business contacts and identifying associated needs.
• Participates in the development and implementation of public information programs relative to the City’s business assistance programs as required.
• May represent the department regarding business assistance and business promotion.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Economic Development, Public Administration Business Administration, or a related field.

AND

• Two (2) to five (5) years of public or private sector experience, working with financial management, small business counseling or a related field.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:

•    Possession and maintenance of a valid State of Michigan driver’s license.

• Knowledge of the laws governing business activity.
• Knowledge of business practices and trends.
• Knowledge of finance or underwriting practices
• Thorough knowledge of modern office practices and procedures.
• Demonstrated computer skills, proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and internet research.
• Ability to carry out routine administrative and supervisory detail independently.
• Ability to maintain clerical records and to prepare accurate reports and tabulations from such records.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with fellow employees, outside agency personnel, and the general public.
• Ability to perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under the pressure of time-sensitive deadlines.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Strives to provide excellent customer service.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

Salary : $31 - $34