09/05/2007 44600

AGENT, ENTERPRISES FOR THE BLIND

DEFINITION:

This is responsible professional work providing technical assistance and advice to Business Enterprise Program (BEP) clients in the establishment and continued operation of a business enterprise.

An employee in this job is responsible for providing advisory services to prospective and current clients who are blind and visually impaired on aspects of business management and operations. Work involves surveying possible BEP opportunities and locations and arranging with agencies or industries for their establishment. Important aspects of the work include conducting research for new business opportunities and expanded operations; providing technical assistance to clients on business development and growth, and in the resolution of problems with management; and assuring compliance with federal and state laws and regulations. Employees exercise independent judgment in selecting and establishing enterprises for blind and visually impaired clients. Work is performed for an assigned regional area and is reviewed by a program manager for effectiveness and achievement of established objectives through reports and conferences.

EXAMPLES OF WORK:

Provides technical assistance and advice to blind and visually impaired clients in support of the establishment and operation of a business enterprise.

Researches new business opportunities to place blind and visually impaired clients in income-producing business enterprises.

Contacts chambers of commerce, private and public agencies, businesses, and industries, to provide information and seek support in the establishment of business enterprises.

Travels to statewide locations to conduct surveys to identify possible locations for enterprises for the blind and visually impaired.

Consults with management representatives in agencies, businesses, and industries to make arrangements for installation of enterprises.

Consults with blind and visually impaired clients and management representatives to resolve difficulties in operation that arise during and subsequent to the installation of a business enterprise.

Consults with vocational rehabilitation counselors regarding blind and visually impaired clients.

Evaluates clients’ qualifications for potential careers as independent business operators, and recommends placement in enterprises.

Advises blind and visually impaired clients on all aspects of business management.6

Develops business plans and assists clients with their implementation in order to achieve successful operation of the business enterprise.

Determines the extent and nature of products or services to be rendered and the relative pricing structures.

Develops the conceptual initial layout and redesign of operations and provides consultation on the installation of stands and other equipment.

Provides consultation to resolve business problems, establish financial record systems, improve profits, and assure the successful operation of business enterprises.

Coordinates the purchase, maintenance, and operation of equipment located in the enterprise.

Prepares programmatic reports and other documentation to ensure program accountability.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of business and marketing principles and methods including inventory control, accounting procedures, and quality control as related to small business.

Knowledge of employment practices and the skills, abilities, and physical demands of food service occupations and other business enterprises.

Ability to interpret federal, state, and Departmental rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

Ability to effectively communicate orally.

Ability to effectively communicate in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

Two years of professional experience managing the operation of a business enterprise or food industry operation; and a bachelor's degree in business administration, accounting, marketing, or hospitality and food management;

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An equivalent combination of experience and training.