Area Director-Atlanta

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Retirement plan

Job summary

The University of Georgia seeks an Area Director for the Atlanta SBDC to lead the office, guide a team of business consultants, and drive growth for Georgia’s small businesses. This senior, faculty-level role requires strategic thinking, business acumen, and a collaborative leadership style.

You will oversee training programs, engage with local economic partners, manage budgets, and develop plans to expand services across the Atlanta area.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a business-related field is required
• Three years of experience in position-related responsibilities equivalent to the role’s scope
• Strong interpersonal skills, business education, and strategic consulting skills are essential

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality instruction to entrepreneurs, business owners, and managers on business plans, market feasibility, financial viability, operations management, and legal structures.
• Develop and deliver responsive business training programs, seminars, conferences, and other learning opportunities; create curricula, agendas, materials, and coordinate with instructors and venues.
• Engage in public-relations activities including speeches, presentations, committee participation, and direct outreach to bankers, chambers of commerce, economic-development authorities, local government agencies, and media.
• Document activities in the Client Information System (CIS) and maintain accurate records in accordance with SBA and SBDC guidelines.
• Maintain efficient operation of the assigned area office, managing personnel, budget, and resources; ensure compliance with administrative policies, innovative service delivery, and continuous improvement.
• Prepare and implement action plans and work plans, contribute to the organization’s strategic plan, prepare Semi‑Annual reports, serve on committees or special projects, mentor business consultants, pursue relevant grants, and represent the SBDC State Director as needed.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Strategic consulting

Business acumen

Education

Master’s degree in a business-related field

Job description

Area Director – Atlanta

Department: PSO‑Small Business Development Center

Location: Atlanta Area, GA

Anticipated Start Date: 10/01/2026

Position Summary

Senior management‑level faculty position dedicated to helping Georgia businesses grow and prosper through business development and operational leadership. The Area Director leads the Atlanta SBDC office, manages a team of business consultants, and provides consulting, training, and strategic guidance to small businesses across the assigned territory. This role requires strategic thinking, strong business acumen, and a proven ability to manage multiple priorities and teams in a dynamic collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide high‑quality individual instruction to entrepreneurs, business owners, and managers on topics such as business plans, market feasibility, financial viability, operations management, and legal structures.
• Develop and deliver responsive business training programs, seminars, conferences, and other learning opportunities; create curricula, agendas, materials, and coordinate with instructors and venues.
• Engage in public‑relations activities including speeches, presentations, committee participation, and direct outreach to bankers, chambers of commerce, economic‑development authorities, local government agencies, and media.
• Document activities in the Client Information System (CIS) and maintain accurate records in accordance with SBA and SBDC guidelines.
• Maintain efficient operation of the assigned area office, managing personnel, budget, and resources; ensure compliance with administrative policies, innovative service delivery, and continuous improvement.
• Prepare and implement action plans and work plans, contribute to the organization’s strategic plan, prepare Semi‑Annual reports, serve on committees or special projects, mentor business consultants, pursue relevant grants, and represent the SBDC State Director as needed.

Required Qualifications

Education: Master’s degree in a business‑related field.

Experience: Three years of experience in position‑related responsibilities equivalent to the role’s scope.

Strong interpersonal skills, business education, and strategic consulting skills are essential.

Preferred Qualifications

Background in team management, financial analysis, business strategy, or entrepreneurship is highly desirable.

EEO Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status, or other protected status.

Benefits Eligibility

Employee benefits eligible, including a defined‑benefits retirement plan and comprehensive benefits package.