Regional Director, SBDC

Provides strategic leadership and responsible for the operational management and results of the Small Business Development Center. This position directs the long-range strategic planning, operations, and/or administrative activities of a department or major function. Analyzes the effectiveness of and establishes future direction for functional policies and programs. The primary duty is to provide innovative leadership for other managers, professionals, and support staff while maintaining and expanding community relationships and contributing to the mission of the Lutgert College of Business.

Job Description

Typical duties may include but are not limited to:

• Guides the strategic alignment, long-term planning, and management oversight of the Small Business Development Center in order to promote the Florida Small Business Development Center (FSBDC) mission in our region.
• Develops proposals, secures sponsorships, and manages specific programs under several contractual agreements.
• Analyzes results of region-wide operations, develops new programs, and identifies and purchases business/management tools.
• Translates strategic and tactical business plans into operational plans.
• Establishes the direction, goals, implementation strategy and policies of the department or unit within an administrative area.
• Directs the efforts of and supervises departmental staff, sets performance standards and accountability, ensures adequate training and support, and promotes a healthy work environment.
• Formulates and administers the annual operating budget. With appropriate approval, may procure agreements for materials or services.
• Advises senior administrators in implementing programs, new initiatives, and special projects.
• Responsible for ensuring the all programs, activities, and series comply with university, state, and federal regulations.
• Responsible for developing and maintaining partnerships throughout the Community. Oversees and maintains good communications, promotions, and public relations for department in order to achieve departmental goals and objectives.
• Engages in legislative efforts in support of the SBDC at FGCU and the Florida Small Business Development Center Network.
• Implements market plans and penetration goals for the five-county region (Lee, Collier, Glade, Hendry, Sarasota).

Other Duties:

• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Additional Job Description

Required Qualifications:

• This position requires either ten years of directly related full-time experience or, as an alternative, a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in an appropriate area of specialization and six years of full-time experience directly related to the job functions.
• Professional full-time experience in general business and small business development.
• Experience operating a personal computer and proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Publisher and Outlook).
• Any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's Degree from an accredited institution in Business Administration, Public Administration or related field plus at least five years management experience; or bachelor's degree with 10 years of business or management experience.
• Business ownership and/or consulting experience.
• Experience handling issues related to entrepreneurship, economic department, and business-community development.
• Experience directing and managing a multi-faceted, multi-location organization.
• Experience managing a variety of organizations and constituencies.
• Demonstrated budget development and financial management experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Advanced knowledge and understanding of management principles, practices, and standards, as applied to public institutions.
• Knowledge of the goals and mission of the Florida SBDC system.
• Employee development and performance management skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills, flexibility, and customer service orientation.
• Skill in examining and evaluating operations and developing and/or redesign operating strategies, systems, and procedures.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to interact effectively with a wide variety of people.
• Ability to supervise and train assigned staff.
• Ability and skill in data analysis and metrics.

Pay Grade 20

The position is listed as “open until filled”; however, applications received by February 27, 2026 will receive priority consideration.

FGCU is a State University System of Florida member and an Equal Opportunity and Equal Access employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.