Director of IL APEX Accelerator (APEX) at the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC)
JOB DESCRIPTION
The Director of the Illinois APEX Accelerator (APEX) at the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC) will manage the day-to-day operations of the APEX and will deliver all programs and services for businesses competing in the federal, state, and local government markets or businesses interested in becoming federal, state, and local government contractors.
The Director will develop the strategic direction for the program, and will execute the plan by providing individual advising, educational programs, bid and proposal support, and other services to support businesses competing for government contracts.
The IL APEX Accelerator is managed by the Department of Commerce and Economic Development (DCEO) and is funded by the United States Department of Defense (DoD).
REPORTS TO: IHCC Chief of Staff
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop and maintain relationships with government entities and business owners through strategic outreach.
- Work with established business owners to effectively compete for government contracts by providing guidance on expectations regarding capacity, business operations, certifications, etc., for working with government agencies.
- Actively network to increase visibility of APEX, including attending procurement events, participation on committees, speaking as a subject matter expert, advocating for small businesses and contracting, etc.
- Provide one-on-one counseling to guide business owners through the process of completing required government forms for procurement opportunities, including certification and bidding in federal, state and local government as prime contractors and subcontractors.
- Assist firms with all federal, state, and local government agencies’ certifications.
- Establish and cultivate linkages and relationships with public and private sector buyers and supplier diversity personnel.
- Plan procurement, outreach and training sessions.
- Record and track client engagement, progress, and government contracting activities in Neoserra.
- Work closely with the Grants Manager and Chief of Staff in budgeting, billing and contract compliance.
- Participate in strategic planning and execution of APEX activities and deliverables.
- Participate in the annual DCEO/APEX programmatic review and financial review.
- Attend all mandatory conferences.
- Assist and participate in IHCC networking activities to promote APEX.
REQUIRED SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS:
- Must have a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, business administration, or other related field.
- 4+ years professional-level business experience.
- Proficiency in Spanish preferred.
- Experience reviewing business structures and plans, experience in contract certifications and contract bidding.
- Analytical skills and financial acumen.
- Ability to interact with all levels of the IHCC and leverage internal and external contacts.
- Passionate about economic development.
We Offer You:
A competitive total benefits package and tremendous potential with a growing mission-focused organization. IHCC offers a hybrid working model of 1 day a week working from home and 4 in the office. IHCC offers a full package of benefits, including 401K, paid vacation, life insurance, and health insurance, paid time off (PTO), among other benefits. Our main office is located in downtown Chicago on the Magnificent Mile.
Salary range: $70-$76,000, depending on experience.
About the IHCC
Founded in 1990, the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC) is the leading Hispanic chamber in the Midwest and the third largest, most active, and most respected Hispanic chambers of commerce in the country. IHCC works with business owners, providing strategic services designed to help all businesses thrive, grow, and succeed.
How to Apply:
To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume by email to:
Marcela Cartagena
Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Chief of Staff
E-mail: [email protected]