Business Counselor II (Hybrid Telework Possible)

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

Definition of Class

This position provides expert business counseling and advising to clients with area specific needs. The incumbent conducts training for staff and clients, prepares stakeholder reports, and develops outreach content for target markets.

Examples of Work Performed

• Identify promising technologies developed in federal labs, universities, and research institutions that have commercialization and defense market potential.
• Facilitate matchmaking activities between identified technologies and the Mississippi small business community.
• Support Mississippi small businesses and startups in navigating the technology transfer process through collaboration with the University’s tech transfer office (OTC) and the Mississippi SBDC.
• Stay updated on agency-specific innovation programs and funding initiatives to guide businesses towards suitable opportunities.
• Conduct market research to identify market trends, customer needs, and potential competitors for technologies being considered for commercialization.
• Analyze the commercial viability and potential return on investment for technology commercialization projects.
• Provide guidance, feedback, and relevant data to support Mississippi SBDC consultants in business plan development, market entry strategies, and funding options.
• Assist in the preparation of pitches, proposals, presentations, and other materials for potential investors, partners, and customers in collaboration with Mississippi SBDC consultants.
• Engage in networking activities to expand professional contacts and increase the viability of the technology transfer and commercialization program.
• Support the collaborative initiative at industry events, conferences, and workshops to enhance program visibility and engagement.

Essential Functions

These essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following. Additional essential functions may be identified and included by the hiring department.

1. Serves as a subject matter expert in a particular business counseling area.
2. Provides logistical support and training for clients and departmental staff.
3. Develops and manages content for outreach materials based on federal/state rules and regulations.

Minimum Education/Experience

Education:
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university.

AND

Experience:
Three (3) years of experience related to the above described duties

Substitution Statement:
Related experience may be substituted for education, on a basis set forth and approved by the Department of Human Resources.

Interview Requirements:

Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Salary/Wage Information

To learn more about our pay structure and view our salary ranges, click here to visit the Compensation page of our Human Resources website. This link is provided for general pay information. Hourly rate or salary may vary depending on qualifications, experience, and departmental budget. Note: Unclassified positions (faculty, executives, researchers and coaches) do not have established salary ranges.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.