State Director - Small Business Development Center

University of Wyoming • Laramie, WY

5d • Onsite

About The Position

Provide executive leadership, vision, visibility, strategic direction, and relationship management for the Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, a statewide program funded through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Wyoming Business Council (WBC), and hosted by the University of Wyoming (UW). Direct the delivery of no-cost, confidential business advising, training services, and resources to Wyoming entrepreneurs and small business owners, manage a network of regional center directors and staff, and ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional program requirements. Responsible for effective operation of the SBDC unit including program development and execution, preparation of funding proposals, diligent financial development and oversight, reporting responsibilities at the federal, state, and university levels, personnel management and leadership development. Develop the strategic vision and direction for the future, while maintaining effective communication with stakeholders. Lead and maintain the national accreditation requirements for the Wyoming SBDC Network programs.

Requirements

• Master’s degree (MBA, MPA, or other related field)
• Minimum 5 years leadership/management experience
• Business Advisor Certification (or ability to obtain within 1 year of hire)
• PMP Certification or demonstrated equivalent experience.
• Valid driver's license with a motor vehicle record (MVR) compliant with the Driving for University Business SAP.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with and understanding of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Small Business Development Centers (SDBCs) and other SBA programs
• Demonstrated business ownership or senior management role in a for- or non-profit entity
• Demonstrated experience evaluating programs, progress, and performance
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing strategic plans that align organizational goals, funding requirements, and stakeholder priorities and metrics within a complex, multi-stakeholder environment.
• Master's degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field, plus 3-6 years of progressive leadership experience; an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Provide vision and leadership for the network in alignment with the strategic plan, stakeholder requirements and priorities, and available funding.
• Develop, implement, and oversee network policies and procedures to ensure compliance with institutional, federal, and state guidelines.
• Evaluate programs in conjunction with the Associate State Director, Program Managers, and network staff.
• Initiate, prepare, and oversee the submission of annual Funding Opportunity proposals to SBA, DoD, and the state (WBC).
• Maintain state-match (via WBC) funding for the SBDC, APEX Accelerator, Federal and State Technology (FAST) programs.
• Clearly communicate annual direction and performance expectations to network staff during regularly scheduled meetings.
• Ensure that systems and processes are in place to meet reporting requirements and accreditation standards.
• Set and communicate organizational values and ethical behavior standards.
• Maintain compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Evaluate trends that may impact programs and respond to changes in the network’s operating environment.
• Lead external relations for all SBDC programs.
• Establish and maintain working relationships with public and private sector organizations in support of the network.
• Oversee effective management of a cohesive brand for all SBDC programs.
• Manage stakeholder standards for program and financial reviews.
• Develop and oversee all program budgets and monitor spending trends.
• Ensure compliance with all funding stakeholders’ requirements.
• Provide direction and leadership in design and implementation of systems to evaluate program and network performance.
• Contribute to the ASBDC association as part of the state directors’ leadership team.

Benefits

• Generous Retirement Contributions: The State contributes over 15% of your gross salary. With your mandatory employee contribution, the total contribution toward your retirement plan exceeds 19%.
• Exceptional Health & Prescription Coverage: Enjoy access to medical, dental, and vision insurance with competitive employer contributions, which include 4 deductible options to suit your needs.
• Paid Time Off: Benefit from ample vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, and paid winter closure.
• Tuition Waiver: Employees and eligible dependents can take advantage of tuition waivers, supporting continuous education and professional growth.
• Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs: Stay healthy with wellness initiatives, counseling services, and mental health resources.

What This Job Offers

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