University of Georgia

Area Director-Atlanta

Education, Government & Non-Profit
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Master's degree in a business-related field required.
  • Minimum three years of relevant work experience necessary.
  • Strong interpersonal skills for client consulting and training needed.
  • Exceptional analytical and strategic thinking abilities essential.
  • Experience in team management and financial analysis preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Provide personalized instruction to entrepreneurs and business owners.
  • Develop and deliver tailored business training programs based on community needs.
  • Engage in public relations and represent the SBDC at various events.
  • Document client interactions using the Client Information System accurately.
  • Oversee the efficient operation of the assigned office and manage resources effectively.
  • Prepare strategic action plans and ensure organizational goals are met promptly.
  • Mentor Business Consultants and actively participate in internal committees.

Benefits

  • Generous and comprehensive benefits package offered.
  • Defined benefits retirement plan available.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and community impact.
  • Multi-county travel to engage with diverse local businesses anticipated.
Full Job Description
Posting Details

Posting Details

Posting Number

F2753P

Working Title

Area Director-Atlanta

Department

PSO-Small Business Dev Center

College/Unit/Department website

Posting Type

External

Retirement Plan

Employment Type

Employee

Benefits Eligibility

Benefits Eligible

Underutilization

Advertised Salary

Anticipated Start Date

10/01/2026

Effective End Date (for Limited-Term postings)

Job Posting Date

07/14/2026

Job Closing Date

Open until filled

Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants

The cover letter of application 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 and discuss why you are interested in supporting the mission and culture of our organization. This position is open until filled.

Location of Vacancy

Atlanta Area

Position Details

Position Information

Classification Title

Public Service Professional AC

FLSA

Faculty Rank

Open Rank

Contract Type

Fiscal (12 mo.)

Tenure Status

Non-Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications

Master's degree in business related field.

Position Summary

Would you like to have an impact on your community and make a difference? Are you committed to service? Are you a strategic thinker with strong business acumen and leadership experience? Do you excel at managing teams, analyzing complex business challenges, and driving results? The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center located in Atlanta, GA is seeking a highly motivated, highly skilled professional for a management-level, public service faculty position dedicated to helping Georgia businesses grow and prosper, focused on business development and operational leadership. Responsibilities also include managing the Atlanta SBDC territory and office personnel.

As an Area Director, you will apply your broad base of business knowledge to deliver high-impact consulting, training, and strategic guidance to small businesses across your assigned territory. This role requires strong analytical capabilities, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. You will lead the daily operations of the Atlanta office, supervise staff, and ensure program excellence within the Atlanta SBDC service area.

This position involves multi-county travel and offers the opportunity to apply your expertise in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

The salary is $100,000 with a generous, comprehensive benefits package, including a defined benefits retirement plan.

Additional Requirements

Please see the UGA guidelines for Public Service and Outreach Academic Ranks at http://outreach.uga.edu/policies/appointment-and-promotion-guidelines/

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, and/or Certification

Three years' experience of position-related responsibilities is necessary.

Exceptional interpersonal skills and a solid business education are required to consult with and train small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

Ideal candidates will bring a solid foundation in business theory and practice, along with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills. A background in team management, financial analysis, business strategy, or entrepreneurship is highly desirable.

Physical Demands

Is this a Position of Trust?

Yes

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

Duties/Responsibilities

Provide high quality individual instruction 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.

Percentage Of Time

Duties/Responsibilities

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 topics, agendas, instructors, instructional materials, location, time, and other resources required.

Percentage Of Time

Duties/Responsibilities

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, main street coordinators, government agencies, local political offices, civic organizations, and local media.

Percentage Of Time

Duties/Responsibilities

Document activities via Client Information System (CIS) in a timely, accurate, and comprehensive manner. Collect and transmit consolidated CIS data. Maintain adequate client files as per SBA and SBDC guidelines.

Percentage Of Time

Duties/Responsibilities

Maintain efficient and effective operation of assigned area office, including management of personnel, budget, and other resources. 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. Uphold contractual obligations with other institutions.

Percentage Of Time

Duties/Responsibilities

Prepare and deploy action plans and individual work plans, assist in the organization's strategic plan, prepare Semi-Annual Reports, ensure that organizational goals and objectives are accomplished in a timely and thorough manner, active involvement on internal committees or special projects, serve as a guide and mentor to Business Consultants, seek and apply for grants relevant to entrepreneurship and business development, represent the SBDC State Director when required, and other duties as required.

Percentage Of Time

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
  1. How did you hear about this employment opportunity?
    • Public Job Posting
    • Internal Job Posting
    • Agency Referral
    • Advertisement/Publication
    • Personal Referral
    • Website
    • Other

Applicant Documents

Required Documents
  1. Resume/CV
  2. Cover Letter
Optional Documents

About University of Georgia

The University of Georgia is a public research university located in Athens, Georgia. It is the flagship institution of the University System of Georgia and the oldest and largest university in the state. The university was founded in 1785 and is known for its strong programs in agriculture, business, and the sciences. The university is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Center for Applied Genetic Technologies and the Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases. The university has a diverse student body and a strong commitment to community engagement and public service.
Learn more about University of Georgia
Size
10,000 employees
Industry

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