Small Business Programs Manager

Job Summary

The Small Business Programs Manager will be a pivotal role responsible for coordinating and executing impactful training and webinar events tailored to the needs of small business owners. This dynamic position involves planning and organizing events, developing engaging content, and collaborating with internal teams, subject matter experts, and external partners. The successful candidate will drive participant engagement through innovative strategies, implement effective marketing and promotion campaigns, and build and maintain valuable relationships within the local business community. Additionally, the role entails data analysis, budget management, and continuous professional development to stay abreast of industry trends. This position offers an exciting opportunity for an individual with strong project management skills and a passion for supporting the growth and success of small businesses.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Meet one-on-one with entrepreneurs to guide them to the right resource or mentor at the right time in their journey
• Work from workspaces in the region to meet entrepreneurs where they are, hold walk-in office hours, and host group coffee hours
• Assist clients in business plan development, marketing, operations, run market reports and finding financing
• Identify and amplify success stories
• Develop progress reports for the SBDC Regional Director, IEDC, and regional stakeholders
• Administrative and data related tasks to measure impact
• Regularly meet with SBDC Regional Director, IEDC, and other SBDC staff

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor's degree
• 3 years of relevant work experience
• In lieu of degree, an equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered (Associate's + 5 years of experience; HS/GED + 7 years of experience)
• Thrives in ambiguity
• Team-player - willing to coordinate, collaborate, and cooperate with others in the ecosystem-building space
• Goal-oriented with strong project execution capabilities
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with multiple stakeholders
• Flexible hours and work locations for the purpose of being accessible to and present with entrepreneurs in different spaces
• Experience teaching, coaching, or mentoring
• Active listener and skilled in asking thoughtful, probing questions
• Well-connected and has built relationships in the community
• Able to build and maintain trust in the community
• Entrepreneurial spirit
• Strong speaking and writing skills
• Strong collaboration and strategic thinking skills
• Travel

Nice to Have:

• Experience in entrepreneurship and community facilitation

What We'd Like You to Know:

• This position can provide a hybrid schedule (75% onsite; 25% remote)
• Learn more about Purdue’s benefits summary, https://bit.ly/3sHGbls
• Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A Background Check is required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contributions Waiting Period
• Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply