JUNIOR BUSINESS COUNSELOR (Bilingual in Chinese/English)

Renaissance Economic Development Corporation (REDC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to transform low-to-moderate income and immigrant communities in New York City by providing low-interest small business loans, training and counseling services. REDC is an affiliate of Asian Americans for Equality, one of the country’s leading community development nonprofits. As an organization deeply rooted in the neighborhoods it serves, REDC works hand-in-hand with local business owners to ensure their long-term success. Renaissance also provides financial literacy services and comprehensive technical assistance to small business owners and entrepreneurs each year through individual counseling and classroom sessions.

We are US Treasury certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), SBA Intermediary Microlender, and SBA Community Advantage (7a) lender. Renaissance’s lending activities are guided by a commitment to increase business opportunities for low-income, minority, women, and immigrant entrepreneurs.

Position Description:

Renaissance is seeking an energetic Junior Business Counselor reporting to the Director of Programs. The Business Counselor’s overall responsibilities are to interface with loan clients, provide business counseling and technical assistance to clients, outreach to local entrepreneurs and represent Renaissance at marketing and outreach events.

Specific duties for the position of the Junior Business Counselor are to:

• Provide initial intake assessment of clients’ small business needs
• Meet with and consult clients on technical aspects of their businesses
• Make recommendations to management on whether client should move forward with loan application process or continue technical assistance training
• Assist business counseling team with loan package documentation and follow up with clients
• Maintain close client contact to ensure continued satisfaction and to anticipate additional financing and technical assistance needs
• Make site visits to client business locations via in-person or virtual.
• Attend marketing and outreach events via in-person or virtual.
• Maintains the highest level of confidentiality with all client information obtained
• Meets expectations for attendance and punctuality
• Perform other related work and duties as assigned

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration/related fields or 3 years of professional experience
• Strong verbal and written communication ability and organizational skills
• Excellent knowledge of local businesses and resources
• Had worked with low income individuals and diverse communities
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task, perform under pressure, and flexibility to meet deadlines
• Proficient computer skills using Microsoft Office and Google Documents
• Hands on experience working with small business owners is a plus
• Experience in financial and credit analysis is a plus
• Fluent in Chinese is required