Business Consultant-Athens

Inside Higher Ed; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 72,000 - 88,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Defined benefits retirement plan

Excellent benefits package

Job summary

A prestigious university in Athens is seeking a Business Consultant to support local economic growth by providing expert guidance and business training. The role requires a Master’s degree and involves developing programs tailored to the needs of the business community. Candidates must demonstrate strong analytical and communication skills alongside a broad base of business knowledge. This position promises excellent benefits and a competitive salary starting at $80,000.

Qualifications

• Experience in providing business counseling and training.
• Strong knowledge of finance, marketing, and operations management.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual instruction and business support to entrepreneurs.
• Develop and deliver business training programs.
• Market business training programs within assigned communities.

Skills

Business knowledge

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Master’s degree in business or related area

Bachelor’s degree in related area

Job description

About The University Of Georgia: Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia’s oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full‑time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly formed School of Medicine.

Posting Number: F2476P

Working Title: Business Consultant-Athens

Department: PSO‑Small Business Dev Center

Posting Type: External

Employment Type: Employee

Benefits Eligibility: Benefits Eligible

Advertised Salary: $80,000 + excellent benefits, including a defined benefits retirement plan

Anticipated Start Date: 11/01/2025

Job Posting Date: 09/09/2025

Open Until Filled: Yes

Special Instructions To Applicants: If you’re ready to apply your business expertise in a role that supports Georgia’s economic growth, we encourage you to. The cover letter should address the following: Our employees say empathy—an understanding of and service to others—is important in their role at the SBDC. In your letter, please describe instances where empathy is evidenced in your work or elsewhere and discuss why you are interested in supporting the mission and culture of our organization.

Location of Vacancy: Athens Area

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, or 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]).

USG Core Values Statement: The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.218_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

Classification Title: Public Service Professional AC

Faculty Rank: Open Rank

Contract Type: Fiscal (12 mo.)

Tenure Status: Non‑Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in business or related area.
• A Bachelor’s degree is acceptable for a Public Service Provisional appointment (see Additional Requirements for more information on this provisional appointment).

Position Summary: The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center seeks a results‑driven experienced management professional with strong business skills to serve the Athens area as a Business Consultant. A Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Business Consultant is a public service faculty position responsible for providing counseling and delivering programs to individuals, businesses, communities, organizations, and other public agencies in their assigned geographic territory. The position is location in Athens, Georgia. Multi‑county travel is required. As a Business Consultant, you’ll work directly with business owners to provide expert guidance in areas such as financial analysis, business planning, marketing strategy, and operations management. You’ll also develop and lead educational programs tailored to the needs of the local business community.

Additional Requirements: See the University of Georgia Guidelines for Appointments and Promotions for Public Service and Outreach Academic Rank for information regarding the Public Service Faculty ranks. Progression towards earning an advanced degree is expected while in a provisional faculty position. When a public service professional receives an advanced degree, recommendation for a public service faculty appointment can be initiated according to the public service faculty appointment process (see “Appointment and Promotion upon Receiving an Advanced Degree” on page 16 of the Guidelines).

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, And/or Certification: A master’s degree is preferred.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies: We’re looking for professionals with a broad base of business knowledge, excellent analytical skills, and effective management of multiple projects simultaneously. A desire to make a positive impact in the small business community is essential. Knowledge of University and SBDC programs and operating philosophy and/or relevant management background preferred, strong knowledge of core business functions (finance, marketing, operations), and excellent communication and project management skills.

Is this a Position of Trust?: No

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?: No

Does this position require a P‑Card?: No

Is having a P‑Card an essential function of this position?: No

Is driving a responsibility of this position?: Yes

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?: No

Does This Position Have Security Access (e.g., Public Safety, IT Security, Personnel Records, Patient Records, Or Access To Chemicals And Medications): No

Credit And P‑Card Policy

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties / Responsibilities

• Provide high quality individual instruction and educational support to entrepreneurs, business owners, and business managers. Analyze situations, make recommendations, and educate clients with regard to business plans, market feasibility, financial viability, operations management, and legal structures, to name but a few topics. Maintain an appropriate level and mix of clients as noted by annual goals and strategic plan objectives. Responsible for developing and refining a consulting practice that yields impactful results.
• Develop and deliver high quality business training programs that are responsive to the needs of the business community served. Generate curricula for business programs, seminars, conferences, etc. for the local business interests.
• Determine and initiate topics, agendas, instructors, instructional materials, location, time and other resources required. Create and produce instructional materials. Serve as an instructor of business training programs and secure qualified outside instructors, as needed. Effectively market business training programs within assigned communities, so as to meet annual goals.
• In addition to maintaining a broad base of business knowledge, develop specific and relevant area(s) of expertise within the arena of business development. Apply this knowledge through development and delivery of new training programs, consulting tools, research projects, co‑consulting and/or other impact measures.
• Direct clients to other appropriate sources of business information and assistance. Disseminate pertinent information to the business community via various media.
• Serve as an advocate of business development, expansion and retention in the area, thereby becoming a visible leader in the local business community. Work collaboratively with private‑sector businesses, other economic development assistance units of the University System, and other units of State Government to further the economic well‑being of Georgia’s citizens.
• Engage in public relations activities such as speeches, presentations, active committee participation, and direct discussions. Relevant audiences include bankers, colleges and universities, chambers of commerce, economic development authorities, downtown development organizations, government agencies, local political offices, civic organizations, local media and potential program sponsors.
• Assist in the continued development, implementation, and updating of the organization’s strategic plan. Ensure that organizational goals and objectives are accomplished in a timely and thorough manner. Work with colleagues to develop and deploy annual action and marketing plans that align with the organizational strategic plan, are tailored to meeting the specific small business needs within the assigned geography, and capitalize on the skills of SBDC personnel. Prepare and execute individual work plans, including professional development initiatives, which align with area office objectives.
• Support organizational improvement efforts through active involvement with internal committees, center reviews, special projects, and various assessments as directed by the state office.
• Actively participate in the development and execution of sponsorship acquisition strategies in support of area office and state goals. Initiate co‑sponsorship of programs with private businesses, economic development organizations, and other government entities. Seek and apply for grants relevant to entrepreneurship and business development.
• Document activities via electronic information system (Unity) in a timely, accurate, and comprehensive manner. Maintain client files as per SBA and SBDC guidelines. Provide impact information for required SBA reporting including but not limited to success stories.
• Perform all responsibilities efficiently and effectively within assigned area office. Ensure that administrative policies are followed, that programs are innovative and responsive, and that top quality services are delivered. Utilize client and management feedback in striving for continuous improvement. Maintain positive, professional relations with other institutions.
• Represent the Area Director when required.