Director of Small Business and Entrepreneurship

Thrive PEO • Tulsa, OK

16d • $95,000 - $115,000

About The Position

Are you passionate about helping entrepreneurs thrive and strengthening local economies? PartnerTulsa is the City of Tulsa's economic development authority, dedicated to driving economic growth by investing in the local economy. If you are a strategic, relationship-driven leader ready to champion small business growth across Tulsa, this could be a great fit for you. In this high-impact role, you'll design programs, build partnerships, and deliver resources that empower businesses to start, scale, and succeed-while shaping the future of our city's economic landscape.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in a relevant field (master's preferred)
• 7+ years of progressive experience in small business development or related work, including team leadership
• A proven track record of building strong partnerships and stakeholder relationships
• Knowledge of small business regulations and best practices, especially within Oklahoma or Tulsa specifically
• Strong project management, communication, and presentation skills
• Experience with public engagement, events, or digital campaigns
• A valid driver's license and ability to attend community meetings or site visits as needed

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience as a small business owner is a plus
• Grant, donor, or sponsor development experience (preferred)
• Bilingual English/Spanish skills (preferred)

Responsibilities

• Advise entrepreneurs and small business owners on planning, marketing, financials, operations, and compliance
• Design and lead programs, workshops, and training that support business success
• Build strategic partnerships and sponsorships to expand resources and funding
• Manage grants, budgets, and reporting to ensure program effectiveness and compliance
• Connect businesses to capital sources including loans, grants, equity, and alternative financing
• Identify at-risk businesses and proactively support retention and expansion
• Track impact metrics and produce annual reports and community events
• Promote services through outreach, media, and presentations
• Lead and mentor staff, fellows, or interns

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $95,000-$115,000
• Generous paid time off (3 weeks annually in first year, with increases in future years) plus a full suite of benefits (medical/dental/vision/accident/life insurance and more)
• Opportunity to directly influence economic growth and equity in the community
• Highly collaborative environment with public, private, and nonprofit partners
• A mission-driven organization committed to investing in businesses, neighborhoods, and people
• Visibility and leadership in citywide initiatives that make a real difference

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director