Small Business Advisor and Community Navigator

Small Business Advisor And Community Navigator

The City of Roanoke is seeking a Small Business Advisor and Community Navigator to serve on the Small Business Development Center Team. This position will provide counseling, training, and business resources to help launch, grow and strengthen Virginia businesses especially new and early-stage ventures. Our economic impact is measured and funded based on outcomes. The Greater Roanoke & NRV Team is comprised of fulltime and part time staff, and we utilize support from statewide programs and subject matter experts as needed. We are the region's small business champions and experts, serving the Greater Roanoke Valley, New River Valley, and the Alleghany Highlands. This position will work 20 hours / week.

Advisors provide confidential technical help to small business owners, generate new client leads, develop relationships with key administration officials, take part in the creation and delivery of workshops and products for the start-up and aspiring business owners, meet compliance with reporting requirements, collaborate on marketing efforts, and take part in local events and networking opportunities. Areas of advising will emphasize startup fundamentals, including business planning, feasibility testing, financing readiness, go-to-market strategies, and early operations, while also supporting ongoing finance, marketing, and operational needs.

Advisors assume responsibility, work without direct supervision, network effectively, exercise initiative and judgment, are curious, bring solutions to the table, show emotional intelligence, and make decisions within the scope of assigned authority. An entrepreneurial mindset and ability to guide clients through uncertainty are essential. We work in a fast-paced information-based environment and adapting quickly is key. In addition to working one-on-one with clients, advisors will also become involved in the local entrepreneur ecosystems. This includes engaging with potential and existing partners, developing client pipelines, and presenting at relevant events. This position is eligible for prorated benefits, which are adjusted to reflect hours worked or the timing of hire within the year.

The City of Roanoke is an Equal Employment Opportunity / AA / M / F / Disability Employer.

To elevate the performance of the organization, we are committed to respecting, celebrating, and embracing the collective mixture of differences and similarities between our employees as a rich tapestry. Our behaviors will demonstrate open communication, and we will seek opportunities to learn, recognizing and rewarding actions that promote acceptance while suspending judgment. By doing this, we will foster an inclusive, open work environment that delivers excellent service and creates a more vibrant and inviting community.

This is an exempt position.