Small Business/Entrepreneur Specialist

Lincoln Economic Development Association (LEDA) is a private, 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization charged with facilitating industrial, commercial and office development in Lincolnton and Lincoln County. LEDA is funded through a public-private partnership that includes the City of Lincolnton, Lincoln County, private citizens and the business community. Our mission is to foster an economic environment that promotes an enhancement of the standard of living by creating more and better jobs for the citizens of Lincolnton and Lincoln County, and to promote an increased and diversified tax base to provide needed community services.

The focus of this position is to create new jobs and wealth within Lincolnton and Lincoln County by strengthening and expanding the capacity of small businesses and growth-oriented entrepreneurs through the provision of project management, targeted research, database information, strategic counseling, and connecting relevant resources.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Leading small business clients through steps to achieve their goals whether it be a minor obstacle or substantially challenging
• Serve as the "First Stop Shop" for everything locally related to small business creation and retention
• Connect clients with expert advice, either in person or in connection with an appropriate service provider, on business planning, fiscal management, marketing strategies, and operational improvements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with small business clients, understanding their needs and providing tailored solutions
• Deliver the program in a way that reaches all of Lincoln County
• Connect clients with relevant resources, including funding opportunities, networking events, and professional services
• Maintaining close relationships with those resources and individuals charged with providing robust small business assistance such as the Small Business Technical Development Center, and Gaston College's Small Business Center
• Conduct market research to help clients understand industry trends, customer preferences, and competitive landscapes
• Coordinate building and site visits for potential business locations
• Maintain inventory of available existing buildings
• Maintain established client/project tracking system
• Track and report on the progress of clients' business, providing feedback and recommendations for improvement
• Maintain and update community assets for capacity building; adding novel resources as warranted
• Monitor organization's website feature of available sites and buildings suitable for small business clients
• Enhance and maintain relationships with building owners and real estate professionals for any commercially available buildings
• Serve as liaison to help clients navigate city and county zoning and building permit processes
• Create social media content specifically related to assisting small business
• Perform other assignments as directed

Summary

As a Small Business & Entrepreneur Specialist, you will be instrumental in supporting the growth and success of both new and existing small businesses. Reporting to the Executive Director, your role involves utilizing your core skills in relationship building, project management and communication. Your premium skills in problem solving and forming creative solutions will aid in client project oversight, while your relevant skills in organization and collaboration will enhance client engagement. You will be a vital resource for entrepreneurs, helping them navigate challenges and seize opportunities in a competitive landscape.

Education Requirement

Bachelor's degree or 5 - 7 years relevant work experience in a field that supported business operations, provided administrative assistance, financial advice, or managed projects.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $62,000.00 - $72,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan

Ability to Relocate:

• Lincolnton, NC 28092: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $62,000 - $72,000