Sligo County Council’s Local Enterprise Office (LEO) is seeking a dynamic Business Advisor to join our team supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses across County Sligo. This permanent, full-time position offers excellent career development opportunities in economic development and enterprise support.
About the Role
As Business Advisor with Sligo LEO, you’ll play a crucial role in developing and sustaining the local enterprise ecosystem, working directly with start-ups and small businesses to drive economic growth. You’ll deliver integrated programmes to increase first-time exporters, support digital transformation, and promote environmentally sustainable business practices throughout County Sligo.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and lead enterprise support initiatives designed to help microenterprises increase performance and competitiveness across the county
- Manage procurement and delivery of training and management development programmes, including specifications, recruitment, and budget management for small business needs
- Provide strategic business advice to portfolio companies, maximising uptake of LEO support programmes to help them reach growth potential
- Support export development activities by identifying initiatives and collaborating to ensure clients access appropriate export support at their development stage
- Encourage R&D investment among LEO clients and facilitate incorporation of research, development, and innovation into commercial activities
- Deliver one-to-one business consultancy to anyone considering starting a business in County Sligo, providing expert guidance and support
- Lead enterprise education initiatives throughout County Sligo, promoting entrepreneurship and business skills development
Required Qualifications
Essential Requirements
- Strong project management experience with proven ability to manage multiple competing priorities and meet demanding deadlines
- Financial literacy skills for evaluating project proposals, conducting due diligence, and qualifying funding requests for LEO supports
- Excellent communication abilities including business report writing and robust IT skills (MS Office Suite: Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Full driving licence (Class B) and access to a vehicle for official duties as travel throughout County Sligo is required
- Research and analytical capabilities with strong presentation skills for stakeholder engagement
- Understanding of compliance and governance requirements relating to LEO funding programmes
Preferred Qualifications
- Microenterprise sector experience with in-depth understanding of challenges facing small businesses and start-ups
- Relevant third-level business qualification in business administration, entrepreneurship, or related field
- Knowledge of local business environment and economic development best practices
What We Offer
- Competitive salary range: €57,322 – €70,030 with Long Service Increments available
- Comprehensive benefits package including excellent pension scheme (permanent pensionable position)
- Professional development opportunities including training and career advancement within local government
- Work-life balance with 35-hour working week across 5 days
- Job security with permanent employment status in the public sector
- Meaningful work directly contributing to economic development and supporting local entrepreneurs
Ready to Apply?
Join Sligo County Council’s Local Enterprise Office and make a real difference to the business community in County Sligo. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced professional to advance their career in economic development while supporting local entrepreneurship and job creation.
