The Business and Industry Liaison ensures comprehensive business and economic development services are provided in Watauga County, including assisting with small businesses, customized training, work-based learning, and career opportunities. This position serves as a liaison between local business and industry, external and community partners, and the college's Business and Career Services department. Additionally, this position will build and strengthen relationships with the Watauga County Economic Development Commission, Chamber of Commerce, and High Country Workforce Development Board in order to facilitate collaborations that drive economic development.

Essential and other responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Provides high-quality business and career services to students, faculty, staff, employers, and external agencies within the college's service area of Watauga County.
2. Assists with the promotion of and student placement in the college's pre-apprenticeship, apprenticeship, work-based learning, internships, and job shadowing opportunities; assists with employer recruitment of students by identifying, locating, and referring eligible students for job placement.
3. Works with employers and external agencies to determine the need for new training programs to meet business and industry needs; shares training opportunities across program areas to assist in program development.
4. Promotes college programs and training opportunities to familiarize business and industry with the collective services offered through the college.
5. Coordinates counseling, training, guidance, and resource information for start-ups, existing businesses, and potential new businesses within the assigned area of Watauga County. 
6. Supports partnerships with area small business resources and various stakeholders.
7. Collaborates with community leaders and agencies to assist with recruitment and retention of business and industry within the college service area of Watauga County.
8. Partners with college departments to ensure all faculty and staff are aware of the opportunities available for students through the Business and Career Services department; encourages all faculty to be involved in referring students to these services.
9. Collaborates with the Executive Director, Watauga Campus, to identify opportunities to host economic development, business support, and career services activities on the Watauga Campus.
10. Performs administrative duties within assigned program areas; recommends improvements in workflow, procedures, and use of equipment and forms.

Marginal Functions: 

1. Serves on standing and ad hoc committees and focus groups; researches and develops recommendations related to academic and instructional programs; maintains contacts with business, industry, and professional organizations to keep instructional programs current.
2. Participates in professional development activities and required employee training; maintains relevant credentials to instruct selected courses.
3. Represents the college in the community and outside organizations; attends business-related events (ribbon cutting, open house, etc.) as appropriate in Watauga County. 
4. Supports the college's mission, vision, and core values by adhering to all policies and procedures.
5. Participates in the development and delivery of public information efforts; supports college functions and cultural activities.
6. Performs other duties as assigned.

This position description covers the essential functions and duties associated with this position. The President or appropriate supervisory personnel may assign additional duties. The college reserves the right to alter duties, responsibilities, conditions, working hours, and job title with or without notice.