OVERVIEW: Ventures is a Seattle-based nonprofit that empowers aspiring entrepreneurs with limited resources and unlimited potential. We provide access to business training, capital, coaching and hands-on learning opportunities for entrepreneurs. We serve those in our community for whom traditional business development services are out of reach, with a focus on women, people of color, immigrants, and individuals with low income. Our ultimate goal is to support individuals to increase their income potential, achieve long-term financial stability, and provide for their families, and enrich their communities through small business ownership.

The purpose of this position is to provide support for all Ventures client services including training, coaching, loans, IDAs, financial education, and incubation to ensure high quality customer service and effective programs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Other duties may be assigned as needed. Percentages are approximate.

Program Coordination (40%)

Directly coordinate Get Ready for Business orientations, Business Development Trainings, Advanced Services Intake processes, Financial Management Trainings, Legal Clinics, and Peer Loan groups
Provide logistical support for all programs, meetings and events, including room reservations, material preparation, equipment needs and room set-up
Order and/or assemble class curriculums and printed materials
Register clients for upcoming workshops and trainings; send reminders to clients before workshops and classes
Assist with program graduations, including working with staff to create certificates, bringing supplies day-of, set up, and taking pictures
Work closely with Program Data Coordinator to ensure that all data systems are in place for effective program management

Outreach (40%)

Develop and implement regular outreach and program promotion, including: marketing materials, speaking engagements, correspondence, etc.

Create an outreach structure to recruit more BDT graduates into loans and financial services
Work with Resource Development Manager to create marketing and outreach kits for each program that align with organizational branding and messaging
Participate in opportunities to discuss or advertise our programs to external parties such as media outlets, funders, etc.
Attend all BDTs to advertise upcoming opportunities and the Advanced Services process
Assist with the recruitment and screening of program participants into appropriate programs to meet program goals, grant deliverables, client needs, etc.

Assist in the planning and implementation of IDA orientations, intake meetings and trainings, including: scheduling, guest speakers, facilities, materials, promotion, confirmations, tracking, evaluation, and follow-up.

Client Reception (20%)

Greet and welcome clients and visitors to main office, providing gracious client service
Act as primary phone reception; answer front desk calls and answer questions or transferring to appropriate parties
Help maintain office to promote an organized, clean work environment
Collect loan payments from clients
Answer questions about programs and organization in Spanish and English and other communications as necessary
Provide clients with recommendations about internal and external resources for their business, basic needs support, etc.
Assist clients in the computer lab with technical assistance and monitor the lab in the evenings after normal business hours

STAFF-WIDE EXPECTATIONS

All staff are expected to engage in activities that contribute to the general wellbeing of the organization. Unless specifically stated otherwise, staff should expect to:

Participate in staff meetings, workgroups and committees, etc., as well as contribute to the cleanliness and organization of the physical environment;
Attend and participate in client and volunteer events when practical;
Support fund development through activities such as attending and bringing guests to events, bringing content expertise to grant writing or donor solicitations, adhering to brand guidelines etc.;
Exhibit the Ventures core values: integrity, diversity, empowerment, community, innovation, and client-success.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Complete written and verbal fluency in English and Spanish required

The ability to proactively manage up, across, and down the organization
Resourcefulness – willingness to go find the answer to a question or problem;
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, and to work with a variety of personalities and work styles;
Ability to function in a complex fast-paced work environment, set appropriate priorities, and deal effectively with numerous simultaneous requirements;
Excellent organizational skills, with high degree of attention to detail;
High aptitude for learning new systems and processes;
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to come up with innovative and creative solutions or improvements to internal processes;
Commitment to protecting the reputation and integrity of clients and staff through strict confidentiality.

Strong computer & technology skills, including MS Office Suite & basic computer maintenance knowledge; and

Experience with low income individuals and people from diverse backgrounds
Ability to work 1-2 evenings per week (until approximately 9:00pm)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORKING CONDITIONS

The employee must be able to operate a computer and other office equipment, speak and listen on the telephone, and accurately see and interpret columns of numbers.

This position description generally describes the principle functions of the position and the level of knowledge and skills typically required. It does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee, and it is subject to change as the needs of the employer and the requirements of the job change.Ventures is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applications are considered without regard to race, age, sex, color, creed, religion, disability, national origin, marital status, mental or physical handicap, sexual orientation (heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality and gender expression of identity) or any other classification protected by law.

How to apply

Interested applicants should send a cover letter and resume to Jen Chantrill, Director of Training & Special Projects at jchantrill@venturesnonprofit.org.