Essential Functions

1. Manages strategy development and personnel oversight for 10 Regional Offices, Technology Commercialization and Growth teams.
2. Implements statewide strategy within the Client Service division.
3. Establishes and fosters a culture focused on customer service
4. Aligns and sets annual goals, performance objectives, and quality service objectives that are in accordance with SBDC standards and goals
5. Manages team hiring process in compliance with GVSU policies and SBDC leadership partners
6. Maintains a productive and innovative culture that attracts and retains experts in high-growth, high-tech business sectors
7. Encourages and fosters cross-team collaboration
8. Develops, encourages, and reduces barriers for team members to embrace technology, information, and metrics in support of relationships
9. Collaborates with Compliance Officer to ensure teams administrative processes remain in compliance with multiple stakeholders
10. Identify and decrease barriers for field teams to optimize resources and tools
11. Serves as liaison between consultant leadership and the Lead Center regarding SBDC climate, consultant needs, project updates, proposals, and planning
12. Consistently evaluates processes and improves procedures to support client relationships while optimizing grant funding streams
13. Organize and prioritize statewide resources and evaluate regional and statewide issues
14. Manages stakeholder relationships with MEDC and SBA
    1. Ensures SBDC strategies align with stakeholder strategy
    2. Cultivates and fosters healthy relationships with key stakeholder relationships (SBA, MEDC, and statewide SBDC leadership.)
    3. Oversees diverse stakeholder needs including federal, state, and local entities; industry partners; associations; and entrepreneurial service organizations to ensure Michigan SBDC is a state and national leader in entrepreneurial and business development.
15. Promote/Strengthen/Support a vibrant culture focused on helping small businesses thrive.
16. Ensures that SBDC/Host relationships are mutually beneficial.
17. Performs other duties as required/assigned by manager.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities – Required:

• 10+ years of leadership and management experience
• Experience in developing budgets and strategic plans
• Experience managing multiple downlines and programs with competing priorities
• Project management skills

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities – Preferred:

• Experience developing relationships across diverse communities
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to develop teams
• Desire to engage in community development
• Ability and willingness to travel both within Michigan and nationally
• Demonstrated experience leading diverse groups with competing needs
• Proven experience in a business management role with experience in executive-level advising and interdepartmental collaboration
• This position does NOT require driving a company/university vehicle.