Director - NYS Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

POSITION DETAILS

About Us: The New York State Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the College of Staten Island (CSI) of the City University of New York (CUNY) is a dynamic resource hub committed to fostering the growth and success of small businesses across the state. As part of the nation's largest university system, CUNY, we provide comprehensive consulting, training, and research to help entrepreneurs and small business owners thrive in today's competitive market.

We are seeking a visionary and dynamic leader to serve as the Director of the New York State Small Business Development Center at CSI. The Director will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the SBDC's operations, including strategic planning, program development, budget management, and team leadership. The ideal candidate will have a passion for supporting small businesses, a strong understanding of economic development principles, and proven experience in management and business consulting.

Reporting to the Chief Administrator of Community Partnerships and Government Relations, the Director of the NYS Small Business Development Center will play a key role in driving innovative programs and building strategic partnerships that empower small businesses and fuel economic growth throughout New York State.

Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership & Development: Lead the development and execution of strategic initiatives to foster small business growth and entrepreneurship throughout New York State. Align SBDC’s goals with the broader objectives of the state and national economic development plans, ensuring the center’s continued relevance and leadership in the small business sector.

• Operational Management & Oversight: Oversee all operational aspects of the SBDC, including client services, staff management, and financial administration. Ensure smooth, efficient operations while meeting or exceeding performance targets. Develop and implement policies, procedures, and processes that improve service delivery and drive impactful outcomes for clients.

• Team Leadership & Mentorship: Provide strong leadership and direction to a team of consultants, support staff, and volunteers. Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture that encourages professional development and continuous improvement. Inspire, coach, and mentor staff to achieve individual and team goals, while ensuring that the center operates at the highest level of efficiency and professionalism.

• Financial Oversight & Resource Management: Take charge of the SBDC’s budget, ensuring sound financial stewardship. Identify and pursue new funding sources, including grants and partnerships, to enhance and expand the center’s offerings. Manage resources efficiently to ensure the financial sustainability of programs and services.

• Stakeholder Relations & Collaboration: Build and maintain strong relationships with key local, state, and federal agencies, business leaders, and educational institutions. Represent the SBDC in high-level discussions and partnerships, advocating for small business interests and strengthening the center's visibility and reputation within the community.

• Client Services & Business Development: Provide expert guidance and mentorship to small business owners and entrepreneurs, offering tailored consulting services on business planning, marketing, finance, operations, and growth strategies. Lead the development of innovative programs, workshops, and training to address the evolving needs of the small business community.

• Partnership Building & Outreach: Establish and nurture strategic partnerships with government agencies, corporate sponsors, and other external organizations. Expand the reach of the SBDC by creating new collaborations that enhance the value and impact of the center’s services.

• Research & Program Innovation: Collaborate with faculty and researchers at CSI and CUNY to design and lead applied research projects that address key challenges facing small businesses. Stay informed about emerging trends, best practices, and technologies in the industry to ensure the SBDC remains an innovator and thought leader.

• Impact Measurement & Reporting: Develop and track key performance indicators to measure the success and impact of SBDC programs and initiatives. Prepare and present comprehensive reports to CSI, CUNY, and external stakeholders to showcase the center’s contributions to economic development.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree and eight years' related experience required.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Bachelor's degree in business, economics, entrepreneurship, or related field; Master's degree preferred.

• At least 5 years of experience in business consulting, economic development, or a related field, with a proven track record of success.

• At least 3 years of management experience, with strong leadership skills to motivate and inspire a diverse team.

• Knowledge of small business financing options, government programs, and regulatory requirements.

• Familiarity with CUNY or other higher education institutions is a plus.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

CUNY TITLE OVERVIEW

Develops, implements, and directs partnerships between College and external sponsors (such as public agengies, private business, philanthropic, and community organizations) to enhance academic programs and student success.

• Identifies, cultivates and oversees the acquisition of potential partners; builds relationships and develops partnership concepts

• Collaborates with faculty, administrators, and external partners to design, implement, evaluate and enhance partnerships

• Coordinates efforts within College and University to promote and integrate partnerships into academic and service learning programs (through internships/externships, mentoring, scholarships, and related activities)

• Creates case statements and proposals to solicit and secure funding

• Collects data for, reviews, and reports on the success and impact of partnership programs

• Manages an office of professional and/or administrative staff

• Performs related duties as assigned.

CUNY TITLE

Higher Education Officer

FLSA

Exempt

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

$119-995 - $141,858

Salary commensurate with education and experience.

CUNY's benefits contribute significantly to total compensation, supporting health and wellness, financial well-being, and professional development. We offer a range of health plans, competitive retirement/pension benefits and savings plans, tuition waivers for CUNY graduate study and generous paid time off. Our staff also benefits from the extensive academic, arts, and athletic programs on our campuses and the opportunity to participate in a lively, diverse academic community in one of the greatest cities in the world.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please visit http://cuny.jobs/ and enter the Job ID# in the “What” section field. Candidates must attach a resume, cover letter, and three professional references (name, title, organization, and contact information) as one file.

CLOSING DATE

October 17, 2024

JOB SEARCH CATEGORY

CUNY Job Posting: Managerial/Professional

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

CUNY encourages people with disabilities, minorities, veterans and women to apply. At CUNY, Italian Americans are also included among our protected groups. Applicants and employees will not be discriminated against on the basis of any legally protected category, including sexual orientation or gender identity. EEO/AA/Vet/Disability Employer.

Job ID

28978

Location

College of Staten Island