About Cool Ventures

We deliver high-quality, fully funded business support across the West of England. Whether someone is starting out or looking to grow, we’re here to help them turn great ideas into successful businesses. Our mission is to unlock potential, build business resilience, and create meaningful impact — especially in communities that need it most.

About the Role

We're looking for a people-focused individual to join our friendly team as a Business Support & Community Engagement Officer. This hands-on role involves engaging with residents and small businesses in Bath & North East Somerset’s priority neighbourhoods, providing 121 business guidance and delivering practical workshops on business related topics.

You’ll be a trusted local presence — inspiring and guiding early-stage entrepreneurs, building partnerships, and helping businesses access the support they need to thrive.

Why Join Us?

This role is perfect for someone looking to be part of a small but growing company and wanting to use their skills and experience to make a real difference. You will have the opportunity to work flexibly within the community, engaging directly with local businesses and entrepreneurs to help them succeed.

Please note: due to the community-based nature of this role, access to a car is essential.

Key Responsibilities

Outreach and Community Engagement

- Act as the first point of contact for aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses
- Deliver one-to-one business guidance and monthly group sessions
- Coordinate local events and workshops in partnership with community organisations
- Build relationships with referral partners and local networks
- Help deliver the “Thrive” programme, including light-touch mentoring
- Identify and share emerging needs within communities

Business Support Delivery

- Provide initial advice on areas such as business start-up, finance, and compliance
- Refer clients to specialist advisers and local services
- Support delivery of programme outcomes (e.g. new businesses and job creation)
- Maintain accurate client records and support reporting
- Keep up to date with relevant funding opportunities, events, and business trends

Other

- Collaborate with our South Gloucestershire Outreach Adviser
- Attend and support events run by the wider B&NES Business Support Service team
- Run topic-specific 121 clinics when appropriate
- Represent Cool Ventures’ values and sustainability goals in your day-to-day work

About You

Essential

- Minimum 2 years’ experience advising small businesses or running your own business
- Friendly and confident communicator with strong people skills
- Experience facilitating group workshops or presentations
- Organised, self-motivated and able to work independently
- Confident with digital tools (Microsoft Office, CRMs, video conferencing)
- Strong understanding of at least one core business area (e.g. finance, compliance, planning)
- Access to a car for travel across the region

Desirable

- SFEDI qualification or equivalent
- Experience delivering training or mentoring
- Commercial or sector-specific knowledge
- Understanding of challenges faced by underrepresented entrepreneurs

Our Values

- Client Focus – We meet people where they are
- Collaboration – We work closely with communities and partners
- Excellence – We deliver practical, high-quality support
- Innovation – We adapt and embrace fresh ideas
- Integrity – We act with respect and inclusivity

What We Offer

- £28,000–£32,000 pro rata (dependent on experience)
- 30 days holiday (pro rata) + your birthday off
- Private healthcare and Employee Assistance Programme

How to Apply

If you are interested in this role and would like to apply, please submit your CV by email along with a short covering letter explaining what skills and experience you would bring to the role and how your values align with ours. Please note that we are unable consider any application that does not include a cover letter.

Email your application to: sue.marchant@coolventures.co.uk

We look forward to hearing from you!

Deadline: Friday 20th June 2025

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are happy to make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process.

Cool Ventures is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants.