Associate Business Support Advisor - Sandwell, United Kingdom - Aspire4u CIC

Description

Associate Business Support Advisor

As an Associate Business Advisor for the Sandwell Enterprise Programme, you will have a pivotal role in supporting startup businesses based in Sandwell.

You will offer vital guidance, hands-on administrative assistance, and advice to individuals aspiring to start their own businesses in the area.

With a passion for nurturing entrepreneurial growth, you will be instrumental in empowering Sandwell based entrepreneurs to establish and expand successful businesses, thus contributing to the economic development and prosperity of the local community.

The Sandwell Enterprise Programme delivered by Aspire4u, as part of the Sandwell Council's programmes is an initiative designed to support local entrepreneurs and businesses in Sandwell.

Through a combination of training, mentoring, and networking opportunities, the programme aims to empower individuals to start and grow successful businesses.

Participants receive guidance on various aspects of business development, including registering their businesses, developing business plans, accessing funding opportunities, and navigating regulatory requirements.

The programme fosters a supportive environment where participants can learn from experienced advisors, network with other entrepreneurs, and gain valuable skills and knowledge to succeed in their ventures.

By providing tailored support and resources, the Sandwell Enterprise Programme contributes to the economic development and prosperity of the local community.

What will I be doing?

• Provide practical support in one to one sessions including offering guidance and assistance to entrepreneurs in practical areas such as registering their business with HMRC, obtaining necessary licences and permits, and setting up a business bank account.
• Supporting with participants business plans by assisting participants in developing and refining their business plans to ensure they are comprehensive, realistic, and aligned with programme objectives. This includes but is not limited to, providing support with market analysis, financial projections, and risk management.
• Assessing business plans submitted by participants against a set of criteria to ensure they meet programme requirements and industry standards. This involves reviewing plans for clarity, coherence, and feasibility.
• Providing knowledgeable and informative feedback on business plans, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. Feedback should aim to ensure that participants' business plans are at a standard that can be successfully scrutinised by authorities such as investors and lenders beyond our programme.
• Providing feedback in the correct format (training will be delivered) to ensure consistency for all participants.
• Maintaining effective communication with the team and administrative documentation to ensure accurate records of participant interactions such feedback provided, progress made and time spent reviewing participant business plans.
• Work closely with the project manager to support the overall objectives of the Sandwell Enterprise Programme. This will involve participating in team meetings, providing input and regular updates on participants development, and assisting with programme promotion and networking activities.
• Continual learning and improvement by staying informed about trends and best practices in entrepreneurship, business development, and small business support services. Continuously seek opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.

Practical Considerations:


Place of Work:
Hybrid


Hours: 6-10 hours per week


Rate of Pay:
Outcome based


Contract:
Freelance


Working Pattern:
Flexible working patterns, including evenings and weekends when necessary.


What knowledge and experience will I need?

Qualifications:

Business support qualifications such as(or equivalent):

• SFEDI Awards in Business Support (Level 3) or
• IOEE Diploma in Business Support (Level 3)

Professional qualifications or certifications in business advisory services (D)

Membership for professionals in the consulting or business advisory sector held (D)


Experience:

• Experience in a business advisory role, or hands on experience in setting up and running a business (E)
• Proven experience in providing onetoone support and guidance to new businesses or entrepreneurs (E)
• Demonstrated experience in assisting with business plan development and refinement (E)

Knowledge:

• Understanding of the UK business landscape, including startup procedures, regulations, and support systems.

Familiarity with financial planning and budgeting for new businesses (E)

• Understanding of market analysis, competitive research, and customer segmentation (E)
• Awareness of legal and regulatory considerations for small businesses (E)

Skills:

• Ability to work with a diverse range of individuals and understand their unique business visions (E)
• Strong interpersonal skills