Business Resource Advisor/Marketing

About Us

Valley Partners is a mission driven nonprofit economic development organization dedicated to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs across the Mahoning Valley. Through access to capital, small business resources, and strategic support, Valley Partners works to strengthen local businesses, foster job creation, and drive sustainable community growth. The organization operates a Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) through the Ohio Department of Development within its office.

Position Overview

Valley Partners is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented, and community-focused Business Resource Advisor to support small businesses and entrepreneurs through technical assistance and development services. This position plays a critical role in assisting clients through key elements of starting and/or operating a business while also supporting outreach, marketing, and community engagement initiatives.

Business Advisor Duties and Responsibilities

Assist the Manager of the Business Resource Center as an MBAC Certified Advisor.
Work directly with entrepreneurs and small business owners to evaluate business readiness, financial needs, and growth opportunities. This includes items such as Business plans, financial statements and projections, credit data and other supporting documentation
Provide ongoing technical assistance and support to borrowers after loan closing.
Develop and maintain referral sources for prospective small businesses located within target communities and in need of financing.
Host and/or attend networking events, workshops, and community activities at least quarterly to generate clients and referral partnerships.
Interact professionally and tactfully with potential borrowers, existing borrowers, community partners, and stakeholders. Must demonstrate strong outreach and business development skills.
Maintain accurate records and assist with reporting requirements as needed.

Marketing & Digital Media

Assist with company marketing efforts and outreach initiatives.
Update and maintain the company website.
Record, edit, and post quarterly small business success story videos featuring client interviews and loan impact stories.
Implement and manage the company’s social media strategy and develop digital media content for social media platforms – Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.
Create engaging content including articles, newsletters, graphics, photos, marketing materials, paper and digital advertisements and videos.
Track and analyze engagement metrics across social media platforms, website traffic, and Google analytics.
Must be proficient in Canva and comfortable creating professional digital content.
Create and distribute Annual Report

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, marketing, communications, or related field preferred.
1-3 years’ experience in small business development, commercial lending, banking, community development, or economic development.
Experience with financial analysis and business plan preparation.
Proficient in Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, Outlook)
Strong analytical and organizational skills, written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities.
Proficient in social media management and digital marketing tools.
Experience with Salesforce, JotForm and Canva preferred.
MBAC Certification preferred or willingness to obtain certification.

Certification Requirement

The selected candidate must successfully complete a Certified Business Advisor Accreditation (typically online at Kent State) within six (6) months of the start date as a condition of continued employment. *Pay increase upon completion of CBA certification.

Benefits

Competitive salary/benefits
Flexible schedule
Professional development opportunities
Community impact-driven work environment
Opportunity to support local entrepreneurs and economic growth

Applications will be accepted until June 13, 2026

Pay: $55,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance
Flexible schedule
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Parental leave
Retirement plan
Vision insurance

Education:

Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

business dev.; comm lending; community or economic dev.: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

Certified Business Advisor (CBA) Certification (Preferred)

Work Location: In person