"Director of Specialty Programs"

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.

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.

Posting 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. 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
Retirement Plan: (not specified)
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
Location of Vacancy: Outside Athens

Position Information

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.
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.

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