Business Start Up Instructors for Finance and Operations

Mercy Connections is a community-based, education and social service organization empowering people to make significant life changes through education, mentoring, entrepreneurship, and community. Programs and classes support re-entry into community for formerly incarcerated women and educate underserved adults, including immigrants and refugees. Programs are designed to help participants with improved well-being, academics, literacy, job readiness, business ownership, leadership, English and U.S. citizenship.

Accountability: Reports to the Director of Inclusive Entrepreneurship

Supervisory Responsibilities: N/A

Position Summary: The Business Start Up Instructor is part of a three-person instruction team for the Start Up business planning course. The 16-week course delivers primarily online instruction to a cohort of students learning to start or enhance a business. The Business Start Up Instructor provides general support to students as well as specialized business planning instruction in either Finance, Marketing, or Operations. The instructor works closely with the Director of Inclusive Entrepreneurship and other Business Start Up instructors to provide high quality education in their area of expertise, create an enriching classroom community, and ensure consistent and meaningful opportunities for participants to learn new skills and develop a business plan. Instructors meet regularly, teach independently and as a team, and provide ongoing and final feedback on students’ business plans.

Essential Functions:

Teach business planning curriculum for area of expertise (Marketing, Operations, or Finance)
Co-teach opening and closing class sessions, which may occur in person
Prepare curriculum and class materials prior to each session for area of expertise
Work with instructor team to develop class schedule and syllabus prior to each semester
Provide students with thoughtful, timely feedback throughout the semester
Attend weekly instructor team meetings
Monitor email and communication channels and respond to students and staff within 48 hours during business hours for routine inquiries, or sooner for time-sensitive inquiries
Review student business plans and work with the instructor team to develop substantive written feedback for students
Participate in student feedback sessions with instructor team
Participate in ongoing program planning and evaluation
Qualifications (or equivalent combination of education and experience)

Formal education in business, business planning, and/or experience as a business owner
Experience teaching and/or facilitating adults; knowledge of adult learning styles; comfortable with online teaching
Interest in contributing to the growth of aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those who have been traditionally left out of the business world
Extensive knowledge of topic area of expertise
Previous experience writing and reviewing business plans highly desired
Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion
Required Skills/Abilities

Ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations across diverse learning styles
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Solid organizational skills and attention to detail
Demonstrated analytical and project management skills
Ability to prioritize tasks and work independently
Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality
Strong teamwork skills, ability to team teach and work well with other team members
Desire and ability to inspire and encourage others; demonstrate kindness and respect
Sensitivity and respect for Mercy Connections mission
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite applications, Zoom, and generally comfortable with web-based applications, and a willingness to learn new web-based applications where needed
Travel

In-person instruction, when required, takes place at Mercy Connections in Burlington, Vermont. Employee is expected to use their own means of transportation.
Additional Information

Application is comprised of a resume and a letter of interest (cover letter) specifically addressing the desired qualifications and required skills and abilities can be sent to Claire Wheeler, Director of Inclusive Entrepreneurship at [email protected]

Mercy Connections is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All members of the Mercy Connections community are valued as individuals.