Each candidate must, on the latest date for receipt of completed application forms:
1. Hold a professional qualification in Business and/or Financial Management (level 8 in the National Framework of Qualifications) or an equivalent professional Business qualification.
2. Have a strong understanding of the needs of small and micro businesses and the role of the Local Enterprise Office, particularly the current challenges facing small businesses in relation to sustainability, innovation, and export.
3. Have a minimum of 12 months’ experience in a client-facing Enterprise Development role assessing the needs of micro-enterprises and delivering appropriate supports.
In the event that an offer of employment is made, the candidate will be required to submit all relevant Educational Qualifications to meet the requirements above.
* Strong organisational and project management skills and experience, with a proven ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities to meet demanding deadlines.
* Ability to influence, collaborate, and connect with internal and external stakeholders for the benefit of clients.
* Financial literacy skills to evaluate and assess project proposals for financial assistance and other supports, including due diligence for funding requests.
* Excellent communication and business report writing skills, with robust IT literacy (i.e., MS Office skills including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
* Strong research capability, analytical skills, writing, and presentation skills.
* Knowledge and understanding of key business growth sectors and client categories in which the LEOs operate, with the ability to translate this into developing effective supports and initiatives.
* Understanding of compliance and governance requirements related to funding through the LEO.
* Candidates must hold a clean, current Class B Driving Licence and have access to their own car.
Duties
The LEO Business Advisor will perform duties assigned to facilitate, implement, and promote the policies and objectives of the particular City/County Council for the advancement of the Local Enterprise Office.
The Business Advisor will report to the Head of the Local Enterprise Office or any other officer designated by the Chief Executive.
* Develop and lead initiatives to support microenterprises in increasing performance and competitiveness, including programmes such as Digital Transformation and Green initiatives to build resilience.
* Engage with portfolio companies to support their growth and increase market share by maximising uptake of the full range of LEO supports.
* Identify initiatives to assist LEO clients with exporting activities and ensure they have access to appropriate support based on their export stage.
* Encourage and support LEO clients in investing in R&D and incorporating RD&I into their commercial activities.
* Conduct client meetings to provide one-on-one business advice, including assessing grant applications and presenting them to the evaluation committee.
* Develop and manage business-related training and mentoring programmes and events.
* Manage projects from initiation to delivery, including procurement processes, contract management, and promoting an enterprise culture through communication tools.
* Respond to First Stop Shop enquiries, assess client business needs, and recommend relevant supports.
* Staff management and supervision.
* Payment administration, budget monitoring, and reporting.
* Provide regular reports and updates to senior management on metrics and key indicators, ensuring compliance with procedures and standards.
* Assist the Evaluations and Approvals Committee or other groups supported by the LEO.
* Propose suggestions to address challenges and improve operational efficiency and customer service.
* Learn new IT systems and tools, including social media, and attend training courses to update skills.
Application forms and further particulars, including qualifications, duties, and competencies for this post, are available on our website at www.wicklow.ie.
The holder of the office will be required to hold a valid Irish/EU full driving licence for class B vehicles or a licence acceptable to NDLS for exchange, free from endorsement and disqualification.
Human Resources Department
Wicklow County Council
Wicklow Town
Co. Wicklow
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