The Entrepreneurs Center (EC) Export Assistance Director / Advisor will deliver the Ohio Small
Business Development Center (SBDC) Export Assistance Network program in
Dayton/Cincinnati, Ohio. The incumbent will support the SBDC department of the organization,
including export readiness assessments, international marketing plans, market research, export
compliance education, and access to export financing. In addition, the incumbent will serve as
the first point of contact for new-to-export businesses, as well as those expanding into new
international markets, helping Ohio businesses improve and expand their exports.
JOB DUTIES:
The EC Export Assistance Director / Advisor will be responsible for:
● Implementing the Ohio SBDC Export Assistance Network’s export promotion and
assistance strategies throughout the assigned region.
● Providing in-depth counseling to determine a business’s needs and abilities relative to
exporting.
● Developing confidential export strategies for client companies.
● Scheduling company visits to review product marketability and assess the export
readiness of Ohio firms.
● Advising companies on export procedures and regulations and assisting with export
documentation.
● Following up with client companies for accountability.
● Researching and analyzing economic and trade opportunities in selected world market
regions to determine target areas for Ohio products.
● Coordinating and hosting seminars and workshops to promote exports and provide
training for businesses.
● Promoting State of Ohio export assistance programs (e.g., International Market Access
Grant for Exporters, Export Internship Program, International Market Research).
● Promoting and collaborating with federal and regional export assistance partners (e.g.,
U.S. Small Business Administration, Export-Import Bank, U.S. Commercial Service).
● Coordinating closely with economic development partners and meeting with regional
multipliers to promote exports and export assistance services.
● Developing appropriate advertising, promotion, and marketing materials.
● Attending counselor training sessions, as well as regional and state meetings and
conferences, to maintain in-depth counseling knowledge.
● Developing and providing specific information, reports, and/or special services as
requested by the SBA/SBDC Administrators, the SBA Business Development Specialist,
and the SBDC Director.
● Fulfilling other requirements as detailed in the Request for Proposal and as periodically
assigned by the lead center.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
The EC Export Assistance Director / Advisor should possess the following general
qualifications:
● General knowledge of the principles and practices of international business (required).
● Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
● Sales and marketing experience.
● Strong analytical, innovative, and organizational skills, with the ability to multi-task.
● Proficiency with technology.
● Ability to collaborate effectively with partners, and familiarity with economic
development.
● Commitment to safeguarding program and client confidentiality.
● Proficiency in English; proficiency in a second language preferred.
EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS:
This person should possess the following education & certification requirements:
● Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university in International Business
Administration, Economics, Business, Marketing, or a related field.
● Minimum of two (2) years of experience in international trade, sales, or marketing.
● An equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the
necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities may be accepted.
● Successful completion of the Certified Global Business Professional® (CGBP) course
within the first year of employment, regardless of education or experience.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work environment characteristics described are representative of those an employee
encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Position is typically office or
administrative work and is not exposed to adverse environmental conditions.
Regular travel within the assigned region is required for company visits and partner meetings,
along with occasional travel to regional and state meetings and conferences.
Limited evening or weekend hours may be required.