Coordinator, Supplier Readiness
YAVAPAI COLLEGEDescription of Position ***Please note: this is a grant-funded position and continuation is subject to grant funding*** The Supplier Readiness Coordinator manages day-to-day implementation of Yavapai College SBDC’s SCALE-funded Supplier Readiness Initiative and Supplier Readiness Academy, helping local manufacturers prepare for supply-chain and procurement opportunities. The Coordinator recruits and maintains a sufficient pipeline of qualified businesses to support at least 25 in completing the program and achieving buyer readiness, recruiting beyond that number as needed to account for attrition and differing readiness levels. The position coordinates business assessments, individualized improvement plans, training, and technical assistance addressing operational, certification, cybersecurity, workforce, and financing needs. Working with SBDC advisors, industry partners, and prospective buyers, the Coordinator develops relationships, facilitates buyer engagement, and tracks participant progress and grant outcomes. The position reports to the SBDC Director and works collaboratively with College staff and external partners. This full-time position is funded for the two-year SCALE project period and involves office work, visits to manufacturing facilities, and travel within Yavapai and Maricopa counties. Key Responsibilities: Coordinate individualized Supplier Readiness Action Plans, translating assessment findings into prioritized improvements, estimated costs, milestones, and resource referrals; monitor progress and help participants address barriers to completion and buyer readiness. Recruit, screen, and enroll Yavapai County manufacturers and supplier candidates through outreach, business visits, and partner referrals; maintain a sufficient pipeline to support at least 25 businesses in completing the program and achieving buyer readiness. Coordinate business site visits and readiness assessments to identify each participant’s capabilities, operational needs, production capacity, business goals, and gaps relative to prospective buyer requirements. Arrange technical assistance with SBDC advisors and specialized partners to address certifications, quality systems, cybersecurity, production documentation, workforce needs, capital readiness, and procurement requirements. Develop relationships with prospective buyers and procurement representatives in Yavapai and Maricopa counties; facilitate introductions and help participating businesses prepare capability information and documentation for buyer engagement. Plan and deliver Supplier Readiness Academy workshops, webinars, buyer forums, and matchmaking activities, coordinating presenters, partners, logistics, and participant follow-up. Maintain accurate and confidential client records, action plans, service documentation, and outcome data; track performance measures and prepare information for grant reports and program evaluation. Coordinate program schedules and partner commitments with the SBDC Director, College programs, Arizona APEX Accelerator, Arizona Manufacturing Extension Partnership, and other partners to keep activities aligned with project goals and deadlines. Minimum Expectations & Requirements Education: Associate's degree in business, economic development, manufacturing, supply-chain management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience. Experience: Four years of experience in manufacturing, small-business consulting, economic development, workforce development, supply-chain operations, or a related field, including coordinating projects and working directly with business owners or organizational partners. Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: Project coordination skills, including organizing work, managing competing priorities, tracking milestones, and following through on commitments. Strong written and verbal communication, business outreach, and relationship-building skills. Ability to identify business needs and coo…