Strategist

STRATEGIST

Business Link Alberta (“BLA”) is a government-funded, not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and small business owners across Alberta. For more than 30 years, BLA has helped thousands of prospective and existing entrepreneurs through webinars, events, conferences, and personalized one-on-one consultations. In addition to providing guidance on how and where to access support, BLA has also administered grant funding programs on behalf of the government.

BLA collaborates with a wide range of service providers, funding organizations, and small business support agencies throughout the province. Each year, BLA serves more than 5,000 clients from across Alberta, including those in rural communities, and urban centers.

Our Mission

BLA helps Alberta’s small businesses start and succeed.

Our Values

• Inclusive


• Impactful


• Non-Judgmental

Our Culture

• Innovative


• Transparent


• Open-Minded


• Collaborative


• Respectful


• Belonging

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Manager, Client Service, the Strategist delivers client-centered guidance that supports entrepreneurs in starting and growing their businesses.

Through one-on-one engagements, the Strategist provides practical, tailored support, helping clients navigate programs, connect with ecosystem supports, and clarify their goals. The role focuses on building client capability and confidence, enabling informed decision-making at each stage of the business journey.

The Strategist also plays a key role in strengthening the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through meaningful outreach and relationship-building, they increased awareness of services and ensure more entrepreneurs can access and benefit from available supports.

In addition, the Strategist contributes to continuous improvement by capturing client insights, identifying emerging needs, and supporting data-informed enhancements to programs and service delivery.

Key Relationships:

• Entrepreneurs and small business owners across all stages


• Internal service teams


• Ecosystem partners


• Community organizations serving diverse and underserved populations


• Indigenous and rural business support networks

LOCATION & WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Offices in Edmonton and Calgary (hybrid model)


• Minimum three days per week in-office or in face-to-face settings


• Occasional travel within Alberta (approximately 4–6 times per year)


• Availability to attend occasional meetings and events outside regular business hours.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Client Guidance & Experience

• Deliver tailored, one-on-one services to support entrepreneurs and small business owners


• Conduct needs assessments and provide clear, actionable guidance


• Support clients in navigating programs, funding, and ecosystem resources


• Build client capability, confidence, and decision-making skills

Program & Service Delivery

• Deliver workshops, webinars, and presentations to support entrepreneurial learning


• Contribute to the delivery of programs and services aligned with organizational priorities

Data & Insight Contribution

• Accurately capture client interactions and outcomes in CRM systems


• Identify trends, gaps, and emerging client needs through service delivery


• Provide feedback and insights to inform program development and service improvements

Stakeholder & Ecosystem Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with ecosystem partners and community organizations


• Connect clients to relevant supports and services across the ecosystem


• Represent BLA at events and within the community

Team Contribution

• Collaborate with team members to support consistent service delivery


• Contribute to a culture of learning and continuous improvement


• Support organizational initiatives that enhance client impact

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• Client service and coaching


• Critical thinking and problem solving


• Relationship management and stakeholder engagement


• Communication and facilitation


• Systems thinking and resource navigation


• Cultural competency and inclusive service delivery


• Adaptability and resilience


• Collaboration and teamwork

QUALIFICATIONS

• Post-secondary degree in Business or a related field, or a business diploma combined with a minimum of two (2) years of relevant experience.


• Strong understanding of small business and entrepreneurship; lived experience as an entrepreneur is an asset.


• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and collaborate across diverse stakeholders.


• Strong communication and facilitation skills; public speaking experience is an asset.


• Proficiency in research, digital tools, and virtual service delivery.


• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, client-focused environment.


• Commitment to inclusive, client-centered service delivery.


• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License is an asset.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Competitive salary aligned with comparable roles in other not-for-profit and government funded organizations.


• Employer-paid extended health and dental benefits.


• Defined benefit pension plan with employer contributions.


• Life, disability, and critical illness insurance


• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).


• Hybrid work environment supporting collaboration and flexibility


• Generous paid time off, including vacation, personal, and wellness leave, plus a paid office closure between December 24 and January 1.


• Annual professional development allowance to support ongoing learning and career growth.

Business Link Alberta is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. We value collaboration, transparency, and innovation in serving Alberta’s small business community.

Please note: This position is being advertised in both Calgary and Edmonton; however, only one position will be filled. The successful candidate may be based in either location.