Working Solutions CDFI Hiring Business Development Officer | $80K–$85K Remote Role (California-Based)

The Business Development Officer role at a mission-driven financial institution such as Working Solutions CDFI represents a growing career path at the intersection of finance, community development, and entrepreneurship. This position focuses on expanding access to capital for small businesses that are often excluded from traditional banking systems, particularly those led by underserved communities.

As community development financial institutions (CDFIs) expand across the United States, roles like this are becoming essential in addressing economic inequality and supporting inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystems.

Understanding the Mission of a CDFI

Working Solutions CDFI is part of a nationwide network of institutions designed to provide fair and accessible financing to entrepreneurs who face barriers in traditional lending environments. These organizations prioritize social impact over profit, focusing on economic inclusion.

Their lending model includes:

• Small business loans ranging from $5,000 to $100,000
• Flexible underwriting with no strict minimum credit score requirements
• No collateral requirements for many borrowers
• Free business consulting and advisory services

This approach helps unlock opportunities for entrepreneurs who might otherwise be excluded from financial systems.

The Role of the Business Development Officer

The Business Development Officer plays a key role in expanding organizational reach and ensuring that entrepreneurs are connected to funding opportunities. Rather than focusing purely on sales, the role emphasizes partnerships, trust-building, and community engagement.

Core responsibilities include:

• Developing partnerships with banks, credit unions, and financial institutions
• Building relationships with community organizations and business networks
• Increasing visibility of lending programs across California
• Generating and managing a pipeline of qualified business borrowers
• Supporting outreach campaigns with communications teams
• Using CRM systems to track engagement and performance

This position requires a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on community engagement.

Expanding Access Through Partnerships

A major focus of the role is building referral ecosystems that connect entrepreneurs to capital. These partnerships ensure that small business owners who do not qualify for traditional loans still have access to financial support.

Common partners include:

• Local and regional banks
• Credit unions and micro-lenders
• Small business development centers
• Entrepreneur support organizations
• Trade associations and incubators

Through these relationships, the Business Development Officer helps strengthen local economies and increase financial inclusion.

Community Outreach and Engagement

Beyond institutional partnerships, the role involves direct engagement with communities and entrepreneurs. This includes attending events, hosting presentations, and meeting business owners in person and virtually.

Outreach efforts often focus on:

• Start-up and early-stage entrepreneurs
• Women-owned businesses
• BIPOC entrepreneurs
• Low-income and historically underserved communities

This hands-on approach ensures that capital reaches the people who need it most.

Skills and Qualifications for Success

The Business Development Officer role requires strong interpersonal skills, financial awareness, and a deep commitment to community impact. While it is an entry-level to mid-level position, it demands initiative and relationship-building expertise.

Key qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree or 1–3 years of relevant experience
• Strong communication and relationship management skills
• Experience with CRM tools such as Salesforce
• Familiarity with financial or banking concepts (preferred)
• Ability to manage multiple priorities independently
• Spanish fluency (required for community engagement)

The role also requires comfort with travel across California to support outreach efforts.

Data, CRM Systems, and Strategy

A significant part of the role involves managing data through CRM systems. Accurate tracking of leads and partnerships ensures that outreach strategies remain effective and measurable.

Responsibilities include:

• Daily CRM data entry and updates
• Monitoring lead conversion rates
• Adjusting outreach strategies based on performance data
• Collaborating with internal teams to improve engagement outcomes

Data-driven decision-making is essential for scaling impact.

Compensation and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of approximately $80,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience. Additional benefits typically include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plans with employer matching
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development support
• Flexible work arrangements

These benefits support both career growth and employee well-being.

Application Process

Candidates interested in applying are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter directly to the organization.

Application Email:
jobs@workingsolutions.org

Applicants should include the subject line:
Business Development Officer

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Career Growth in Impact Finance

This role serves as a gateway into the broader field of impact finance and community development. With experience, professionals can move into roles such as:

• Senior Business Development Manager
• Loan Program Director
• Community Lending Strategist
• Impact Investment Specialist

The skills developed in this position are highly transferable across nonprofit, financial, and social enterprise sectors.

Final Thoughts

The Business Development Officer role at Working Solutions CDFI represents more than a job—it is a mission-driven career focused on expanding economic opportunity. By building partnerships, supporting entrepreneurs, and improving access to capital, professionals in this role directly contribute to stronger and more equitable local economies.

For individuals passionate about finance, community impact, and entrepreneurship, this position offers both purpose and long-term professional growth.

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