"Director of Specialty Programs"

Job Details

Posting Number: F2465P

Working Title: Director of Specialty Programs

Department: PSO-Small Business Dev Center

About the University of Georgia: Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia’s oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly formed School of Medicine.

Posting Type: External

Employment Type: Employee

Benefits Eligibility: Benefits Eligible

Advertised Salary: 105,000

Anticipated Start Date: 11/01/2025

Job Posting Date: 08/29/2025

Open until filled: Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants: The cover letter should address the following: “We believe the SBDC attracts people who are generous with their time and energy. In our work, our employees say empathy understanding of a service to others is important to both their role at the SBDC and their personal life. In your cover letter, please describe instances where empathy is evidenced in your work and/or personal life and discuss why you are interested in supporting the mission and culture of our organization. This position is open until filled.

Location of Vacancy: Outside Athens

EEO Statement: The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

USG Core Values Statement: The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct. Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

Classification Title: Public Service Professional AC

Faculty Rank: Open Rank

Contract Type: Fiscal (12 mo.)

Tenure Status: Non-Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications: Candidates must have a master’s degree in business or related field.

Position Summary: The Specialty Programs Director is a senior leadership role within the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (UGA SBDC), responsible for overseeing the development, implementation, and evaluation of specialized business support programs. This includes direct supervision of the Procurement and Finance Specialist and other staff focused on government contracting, supply chain development, and multicultural markets. The Director ensures alignment with the SBDC’s strategic goals and fosters innovation, collaboration, and measurable impact across all specialty initiatives.

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, and/or Certification: Minimum of 10 years of experience in business development, program management, or economic development. Demonstrated leadership and supervisory history. Strong knowledge of government contracting, procurement, and business development.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies: Bilingual or multilingual capabilities.

Is this a Position of Trust?: No

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?: No

Does this position require a P-Card?: No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?: No

Is driving a responsibility of this position?: Yes

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?: No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications): No

Credit and P-Card policy: Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy: Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities: Lead the design and execution of specialty programs that support small business growth in areas such as procurement, finance, and multicultural entrepreneurship. Align specialty initiatives with the SBDC’s strategic plan and statewide economic development goals. Monitor program performance and ensure delivery of high-quality services and measurable outcomes.

Duties/Responsibilities: Directly supervise the Procurement and Finance Specialist and other specialty staff, providing guidance, performance feedback, and professional development support. Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture that encourages innovation and continuous improvement.

Duties/Responsibilities: Serve as a liaison to internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, economic development organizations, and community partners. Represent the Specialty Programs Division and SBDC at public events, conferences, and strategic meetings. Represent the State Director as appropriate.

Duties/Responsibilities: Oversee the development and delivery of training programs, workshops, and seminars tailored to the needs of diverse business communities. Ensure instructional content is current, relevant, and aligned with industry best practices.

Duties/Responsibilities: Identify funding opportunities and other efforts to support specialty programs. Manage budgets and ensure compliance with grant and institutional requirements as needed.

Duties/Responsibilities: Ensure accurate and timely documentation of program activities and client outcomes in systems such as Unity. Provide leadership in compiling impact reports and success stories for SBA and other stakeholders.