SBA Business Development Officer

**THE ORGANIZATION:** Accion Opportunity Fund is an unparalleled financial support system that provides small business owners with access to capital, networks, and coaching. We work to build inclusive and accessible options for these determined business owners. For over 30 years we have deployed over $1 billion in over 35,000 loans and served 4 million business owners with educational resources. Our client base is nearly 90% from underserved communities. In addition to providing resources and loans to small businesses, we also conduct original research, advocate for policy changes, and finance community construction projects in low-income neighborhoods through our New Markets Tax Credit program. AOF is on a journey to both scale our impact and become financially sustainable. We’re building a better system for underserved small businesses and a workplace where passionate problem-solvers, data-driven thinkers, and small business champions thrive. For more information about us, visit https://aofund.org/ **ROLE SUMMARY:** Reporting to Chief Revenue Officer, the SBA Business Development Officer is a high-performing, relationship-driven **SBA Business Development Officer (BDO)** to originate SBA 7(a) loans up to $350,000 by developing and expanding referral partnerships and cultivating relationships within targeted industries. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in SBA lending, a proven track record of business development, and an established network of **Centers of Influence (COIs)**, including CPAs, attorneys, business brokers, financial advisors, consultants, and commercial real estate professionals. The successful candidate will also possess deep industry knowledge and contacts within the **healthcare, food & beverage, trade, and manufacturing sectors**, enabling them to identify financing opportunities and become a trusted advisor to business owners and referral partners. **WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS** - Opportunity to play a key role in expanding a growing SBA lending platform. - Ability to leverage an established professional network while building new strategic partnerships. - High visibility with direct impact on revenue growth and market expansion. - Entrepreneurial culture with strong operational and credit support. - Competitive base salary with uncapped incentive compensation and significant earning potential. **JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:** **Loan Origination & Revenue Generation** - Source, structure, and close SBA 7(a) loans up to $350,000 for small business owners. - Develop and execute a disciplined sales strategy to achieve monthly, quarterly, and annual production goals. - Build and manage a robust pipeline through direct prospecting, referral partners, and centers of influence. - Guide borrowers through the financing process from initial consultation through closing. - Maintain strong conversion ratios while ensuring an exceptional customer experience. **Relationship & Referral Network Development** - Develop and strengthen relationships with Centers of Influence (COIs) including: - CPAs - Attorneys - Business brokers - Financial advisors - Commercial real estate professionals - Industry consultants - Build strategic partnerships that generate a consistent flow of qualified SBA lending opportunities. - Create joint business development plans with key referral partners to increase production and market penetration. - Represent the organization at networking events, trade associations, industry conferences, and community organizations. - Serve as a trusted financing resource for referral partners and clients. **Industry Development** - Leverage existing relationships and industry expertise to develop lending opportunities within: - Healthcare practices and providers - Food & Beverage businesses, including restaurants and food manufacturers - Trade contractors and service businesses - Manufacturing companies - Understand industry-specific financing needs, growth opportunities, and acquisition strategies.…