Trade Advisor

Reports To: MVSBDC Center Director

Job Status: Full Time, Salaried 

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Dayton/Miami Valley Entrepreneurs Center, Inc., d/b/a “The Entrepreneurs’ Center” (EC) is an Ohio 501(c)(3) corporation established in 1998. The EC is a modern economic development organization whose efforts focus exclusively on assisting entrepreneurs and small businesses. The EC delivers support for entrepreneurs through all phases of the business development and commercialization process, from idea inception to business growth and expansion. 

The EC seeks a talented and motivated Trade Advisor to work with Ohio small businesses to improve and expand exports to international markets. The Advisor serves as the first point of contact for new-to-export businesses, as well as those expanding into new areas. Services include export readiness assessment, international marketing plans, market research, export compliance education, and access to export financing.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Export Counseling, Training, and Reporting Requirements:

Implements Ohio Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Export Assistance Network’s export promotion and assistance strategies throughout the assigned region by:

• Providing in-depth counseling to determine business’ needs and abilities relative to exporting;
• Developing confidential export strategies for companies;
• Scheduling company visits to review product marketability;
• Assessing export readiness of Ohio firms;
• Advising companies on export procedures & regulations;
• Assisting companies with export documentation;
• Following up with 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 to businesses;
• Coordinating closely with other economic development partners in the assigned region;
• Attending training sessions for counselors to facilitate ongoing knowledge and ability to provide in-depth counseling; and

Export Program Advocate:

• Promotes State of Ohio’s export assistance programs (e.g., International Market Access Grant for Exporters, Export Internship Program, International Market Support program);
• Promotes and collaborates with federal and regional export assistance partners (e.g. U.S. Small Business Administration, Export-Import Bank, U.S. Commercial Service);
• Meets with regional multipliers to promote exports and export assistance services;
• Develops appropriate advertising, promotion, and marketing materials.

Miscellaneous:

• Attend regional and state meetings and conferences as required.
• Develop and provide specific information, reports and/or special services as requested or required by the SBA/SBDC Administrators, the SBA Business Development Specialist, and the Director of the SBDC.
• Other requirements as detailed in the Request For Proposal and periodically assigned by lead SBDC.

MINIMUM JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

The Trade Advisor should possess the following general qualifications:

• Broad knowledge of principles and practices of international business.
• The ability to counsel on the regulations and services required to complete export sales. 
• Experience in international methods of payment, export financing, and other financial programs.
• Understanding of documentation required for export shipments and processes for completing and filing export forms.  
• Understanding of export licensing procedures (ITAR, EAR, OFAC, etc.). 
• Proven work experience related to international trade (trade missions, foreign trade shows, membership in international business arena networks). 
• Strong English language writing and verbal communication skills; ability to make oral presentations. 
• Ability to handle multiple assignments, work independently and prioritize workload.  
• PC proficiency, including word processing, database, spreadsheet and presentation software. 
• Ability to travel off-site.  
• Valid Driver’s License required

PREFERRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

• Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) or Certified Business Advisor (CBA)
• Customs Broker License
• Previous work for a government agency in international trade
• Experience in a specific global market region (e.g. Asia, South America or Europe
• Proficiency in a second language

EDUCATION:

Bachelor’s degree in International Business Administration, Economics, or related field and three years’ experience in international business administration activities, OR in lieu of a degree, an equivalent combination of education and experience demonstrating the acquisition of required knowledge, skills, and abilities. This position requires successfully attaining the NASBITE Certified Global Business Professional® certification, regardless of education or experience, within the first year of employment. 

BENEFITS

• Health, dental, and vision plan
• Retirement savings plan
• Ten paid holidays per year
• Unlimited PTO
• Flexible schedule