Small and Minority Business Officer
SALARY:
Salary: Depends on Qualifications
OPENING DATE: 06/17/22
CLOSING DATE: 07/01/22 12:00 AM
POSITION SUMMARY/CLASS DESCRIPTION:
The Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) is seeking a highly skilled and
experienced Small and Minority Business Officer for the further development of an inclusive and
equitable economy in Howard County, Maryland. This individual must be able to work
collaboratively, professionally and competently in a fast-paced, high-performance, and multi-
disciplined work environment. In this role, this individual will build connections and relationships
within the business community and facilitate opportunities for business growth and capital investment
with a specific concentration on small and minority businesses.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
- Provide vision in partnership with Managing Director of Business Development regarding
strategies to grow and strengthen Howard County’s small business community in an inclusive
and diverse way
Create opportunities for small and minority business expansion and attraction
Manage relationships with key stakeholders in the business community
Serve as a voice of HCEDA at all public venues, articulating the organization’s vision,
mission, and strategy to all constituency groups; creating strong linkages with community
residents and groups so the highest degree of impact can be achieved through the most
effective use of resources
Implement small and minority business support, outreach, community engagement and
relationship management events as appropriate
Meet regularly with client companies to assist with expansion or relocation opportunities and
provide coaching/education and facilitate connections to resources to accelerate their growth
Provide technical assistance to local businesses through response to inquiries, outreach, and
connecting businesses to state and local resources
Input and maintain accurate data into reporting software to reflect workplan activities as
outlined in the organization’s Strategic Plan
Work both collaboratively and independently with business development team, and partners
to complete nonrecurring and ongoing projects as assigned
Lead, manage, and/or serve on various committees, both internal to HCEDA, county
departments and/or external in the community representing HCEDA interests
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Previous experience working with minority businesses preferred
Verified commitment to serving the needs of underrepresented groups
Extensive experience interfacing with internal and external stakeholders and diverse clientele
Respect for and genuine interest in advancing the growth of small and minority-based
businesses in Howard County
Comfortable in fast-paced environment and ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
3+ years of proven, successful track record of business retention and attraction activities in
an economic development office preferably at the local (county or municipality level)
Working knowledge of State of MD economic development programs and resources
Knowledgeable of the principles and practices of economic development and the general
business community
Demonstrated experience with economic development, deal structure development and
execution
Exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to demonstrate strong communication,
organizational, time management, writing, mathematic and problem-solving skills
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other professionals and
community leaders
Demonstrate enthusiasm, professionalism, and willingness to work as a team. Must be able
to prioritize work load, handle pressure and meet deadlines
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Windows Software, knowledge of
Salesforce and CoStar preferred but not required, and basic mobile technologies. Able to
learn reporting software platforms
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- 3-5 years of experience in economic development, community development, government, or
small business
TO APPLY:
Qualified candidates should send resumes, cover letter and salary expectations to the attention of
Ms. Kimmie at mdkimmie@hceda.org. No phone calls please.
To apply for this job email your details to mdkimmie@hceda.org