Job Title

Assistant Director - TSBDC

Department

Small Business Development Center

Salary

$51,415 - $64,011; commensurate with experience

Job Summary/Basic Function

This is a full-time, grant-funded position reporting to the Director of the Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) at MTSU. The Assistant Director works with the Director to advance the mission, visibility, and impact of the TSBDC at MTSU by developing, executing, and continually improving operational activities, strategic initiatives, client services, and community outreach across the fourteen-county service region in Middle Tennessee.
The Assistant Director works with the Director on operational execution and community engagement through the Rutherford County home office, satellite offices, and community stakeholders. The role blends strategic planning, organizational development, consulting excellence, and partnership development. The Assistant Director works with the Director developing, marketing, and delivering TSBDC services, consisting of high-quality business advising, educational programming, and resource development, to businesses within the region while serving as a visible leader and advocate for small business success in Middle Tennessee.
In addition to tactical execution, the Assistant Director is responsible for working with the Director in the development and implementation of the facility’s strategic plan. Serves as an advocate of business development, expansion, and retention in the area, becoming a recognized leader within the local business community. Works collaboratively with private-sector businesses, economic development assistance units, and government entities to further the economic well-being of citizens in Middle Tennessee.
Engages in public relations activities such as speeches and presentations with relevant audiences, including bankers, chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, and other partners. Coordinates events and maintains records in accordance with SBA contract terms and conditions. Serves as a liaison with government agencies at the federal and state level and interfaces with higher education institutions and regional government offices.
Provides high-quality individual instruction and educational support to entrepreneurs, business owners, and managers, analyzing markets, making recommendations, and educating clients regarding business plans, market feasibility, financial viability, operations management, and operating structure. Responsible for developing and refining a consulting practice that yields measurable, impactful results. Develops and delivers high-quality business training programs responsive to the needs of the business community and specialized programs for focus groups identified in the service center’s contract.
Applies business experience and education in the development and delivery of new training programs and consulting tools. Directs clients to appropriate sources of business information and assistance and provides ongoing technical support to the MTSU/SBDC Lead Center. Plans and executes training, and supervision of MTSU student interns to meet program objectives, including managing and developing the internship program to enhance student learning, strengthen service delivery, and support the operational needs of the Center.

Required Education

Bachelor’s degree in a business related field (Business Innovations and Entrepreneurship, Business Administration, Finance Marketing, Economics, or related).

Required Related Experience

- Minimum one year of experience as a Business Specialist within TSBDC; or
- Minimum of 2 years comparable leadership or advising experience, to include entrepreneurial business planning with a wide variety of client and business types, and/or experience providing guidance in the development of clients’ business plans and financial packages.

Required License/Registration/Certification

Valid Driver’s License.

Desirable Related Experience

- Experience with TSBDC/MTSU systems: MT$ource, Banner Finance, Center IC, LivePlan, DataAxle, IBIS World, Canva, Constant Contact, ProfitCents, Acuity, SBDCnet, Chat GPT, Vertical IQ, and related platforms.
- Experience developing training curriculum, workshops, and business-facing resource for small business owners, interns, MTSU students and faculty, entrepreneurs.
- Familiarity with government contracting portals, APEX, SAM.gov, TNEdison, and GO-DBE processes.
- Experience with system development and process design.
- Experience leading interns, staff, volunteers, or project teams.
- Experience in developing partnerships and collaborating with Chambers of Commerce
- Demonstrated leadership capacity, problem solving, and conflict resolution skills.
- Experience supporting or participating in other entrepreneurial ventures.
- Active leadership roles in committees, councils, advisory boards, and professional programs that elevate TSBDC visibility.
- Ability to innovate, create systems, and improve operational infrastructure.
- Prior entrepreneurial experiences
- Passion for community development and small business advocacy.
- Commitment to continuous learning, including professional certifications, AI education, financial wellness, and business advisory development.

Documents Needed to Apply

Cover Letter & Resume Required

Application Review Date: January 2, 2026

Please Note: Middle Tennessee State University offices will be closed December 24, 2025 - January 4, 2026.  Normal office hours will resume on January 5, 2026.