Area Director-DeKalb

University of Georgia; Kentucky; On-site; USD 85,500 - 104,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Defined benefits retirement plan

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking an Area Director for the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in DeKalb, KY. The successful candidate will lead a dynamic environment to support business development and operational leadership in the region. Key responsibilities include managing personnel and daily operations while providing high-impact consulting and training. A Master’s degree and a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience are required. The salary is $95,000 per year, with comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in position-related responsibilities.
• Ability to consult with and train small-business owners and entrepreneurs.
• Strong business education and background.

Responsibilities

• Lead high-impact consulting and training for small businesses.
• Manage the DeKalb SBDC territory and oversee office personnel.
• Develop and deliver business training programs.

Skills

Interpersonal and communication skills

Business strategy

Financial analysis

Team management

Education

Master’s degree in a business-related field

Job description

Area Director – DeKalb

Position within the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Tucker, GA.

Position Summary

Lead a dynamic, collaborative environment focused on business development and operational leadership to help Georgia businesses grow and prosper. Manage the DeKalb SBDC territory, office personnel, and daily operations while delivering high‑impact consulting, training, and strategic guidance.

Responsibilities

• Apply broad business knowledge to deliver high‑impact consulting, training, and strategic guidance to small businesses across the assigned territory.
• Manage the DeKalb SBDC territory and office personnel.
• Lead the daily operations of the Tucker office and supervise staff.
• Ensure program excellence within the DeKalb County SBDC service area.
• Operate with strong analytical capabilities, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Travel across multiple counties as required.

Duties

• Provide high‑quality individual instruction to entrepreneurs, business owners, and business managers.
• Analyze situations, make recommendations, and educate clients on business plans, market feasibility, financial viability, operations management, and legal structures.
• Develop and deliver high‑quality business training programs that respond to the needs of the local business community.
• Generate curricula for business programs, seminars, and conferences.
• Determine topics, agendas, instructors, instructional materials, locations, and times required.
• Engage in public‑relations activities such as speeches, presentations, committee participation, and direct discussions with banks, chambers of commerce, economic‑development authorities, and local media.
• Document activities via the Client Information System (CIS) in a timely and accurate manner.
• Maintain adequate client files per SBA and SBDC guidelines.
• Maintain efficient and effective operation of the assigned area office, including personnel, budget, and resources.
• Ensure administrative policies are followed and programs remain innovative and responsive.
• Utilize client and management feedback for continuous improvement.
• Uphold contractual obligations with other institutions.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a business‑related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in position‑related responsibilities.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong business education and background in team management, financial analysis, business strategy, or entrepreneurship.
• Ability to consult with and train small‑business owners and entrepreneurs.

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. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

Additional Information

Salary: $95,000 per year with a comprehensive benefits package, including a defined benefits retirement plan. Position is open until filled.