General Business Counselor

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn. One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community. University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance. Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit The North Carolina Small Business & Technology Development Center (SBTDC) is an inter-institutional program within The University of North Carolina. The SBTDC maintains 16 regional offices located at constituent institutions of the University System across the state. The SBTDC is primarily concerned with supporting economic development in the state by providing assistance in the start-up, expansion, and successful operation of small businesses and by facilitating technology development and transfer within the state's small business community. The SBTDC places greatest emphasis on providing one-on-one confidential business counseling and technical assistance to small business owners and those planning to go into business. Position Summary This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station. The Business Counselor is responsible for providing individualized and confidential business counseling services to North Carolina SSBCI TA qualified businesses. The State Small Business Credit Initiative Technical Assistance (SSBCI TA), administered by the North Carolina Small Business and Technology Development Center (NC SBTDC), is a program established to provide support to small businesses, particularly those owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. The initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of small business owners by offering training, mentorship, and resources to help them access capital, improve financial management, and navigate regulatory environments. Through SSBCI TA, small businesses can benefit from tailored guidance and tools designed to foster sustainable growth and competitiveness, ultimately contributing to broader economic development and job creation in their communities. Key activities of this role also include promoting the SSBCI TA program throughout the state and establishing/maintaining relationships with key strategic partners involved in economic development. Specific duties are as follows: Counseling: The counselor is responsible for client counseling through direct face-to-face, video conference, telephone, email, and other forms of communication. The counselor must ensure attention is given to both the technical/business issues, as well as the affective/relationship issues. The counselor must demonstrate professional standards of conduct regarding client confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and professional behavior. To achieve client outcomes and impacts results that include capital formation, job creation/retention, new business starts, success, stories and client satisfaction. Marketing & Outreach: The counselor will have responsibilities for marketing and promoting the SSBCI TA and SBTDC throughout a multi-county region, and to perform outreach and engagement activities with economic development offices, partner organizations, and lending institutions that effectively positions the SSBCI TA in the marketplace. Administration: The counselor is responsible for developing a portfolio of clients, maintenance of confidential client records, and reporting on program performance. Training: The counselor will assist with the design and delivery of training programs sponsored by the SSBCI TA program in collaboration with other partners. Minimum Education and Experience Requirements Bachelor's degree and one year of experience related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions. Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience A broad general knowledge of the principals and practices of small business is required. The employee must have strong computer skills, particularly with regard to word processing, developing spreadsheets, and database management. A demonstrated ability to develop and analyze financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow) is imperative. Employee must have working knowledge of techniques used in collecting and interpreting market and demographic data. The employee must have the ability to work independently, handle multiple assignments, and establish work priorities. Excellent interpersonal and communicative skills are also required. Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience Master's degree preferred. Special Physical/Mental Requirements Campus Security Authority Responsibilities Not Applicable. Special Instructions In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire. Quick Link