Business Development Officer I

Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

The Business Development Officer I (BDO I) supports the operational success of PHFA’s statewide Housing Counseling Network, composed of 60+ non-profit Housing Counseling Agencies (HCAs). This role is responsible for reviewing and monitoring counseling activity, supporting new initiatives, and assisting agencies in delivering high-quality housing counseling services across Pennsylvania. The BDO I works closely with the Senior Business Development Officer (SBDO) to support strategic program goals, expand coverage areas, and ensure alignment with grant and policy expectations. The role requires travel throughout the state and strong collaboration with internal teams and external partners.

Review and Program Support (30%)

• Monitor and analyze counseling activity through reports and internal systems.
• Work with the SBDO to identify and support HCAs needing operational improvement or corrective actions.
• Assist with the implementation of best practices across the network.
• Support and help administer counseling workflow systems and other internal/external tools used by the network.
• Foster and maintain strong working relationships with HCAs and key partners.

Program Monitoring and Partner Guidance (20%)

• Collaborate with Program Operations to monitor HCA reporting and billing activity for consistency with program expectations.
• Maintain a deep understanding of program policies and requirements for all Counseling Division initiatives.
• Provide HCAs with technical assistance and clarification on program operations, eligibility, or documentation.
• Attend internal and external meetings on behalf of the Business Development team and report back to SBDO.
• Help identify training needs or policy adjustments based on observed network activity.

Special Initiatives and Pilot Programs (20%)

• Work closely with the SBDO and Director to support design and execution of new pilot programs or special initiatives.
• Draft internal procedures, outreach tools, and templates to ensure consistency across participating HCAs.
• Assist HCAs in understanding and implementing special program requirements.
• Monitor progress and flag implementation challenges to the SBDO.
• Support reporting and evaluation efforts related to pilot programs and help shape future iterations.

Grant Monitoring Support (10%)

• Review HCA grant activity for consistency with program goals and identify issues that may need technical support.
• Collaborate with the Grant Administrator to stay informed about reconciliation and reporting deadlines.
• Provide guidance to HCAs on grant-related policies and allowability of expenses.
• Share feedback with SBDO to help inform division-wide technical assistance planning.

Grant and Program Development (10%)

• Assist with the development of grant proposals, particularly in response to HUD NOFOs and similar opportunities.
• Help draft guidance documents, application templates, and training tools for sub-grantees.
• Gather and analyze data from HCAs to support proposal development and reporting.
• Coordinate with the training team to educate agencies on program requirements and timelines.

Training, Travel and Technical Assistance (10%)

• Travel to HCAs across Pennsylvania to deliver technical assistance and conduct site visits.
• Attend HCA-hosted events and regional convenings.
• Provide virtual or in-person training to support implementation and capacity-building.
• Participate in conferences and training opportunities to remain current with industry trends.
• Take on special assignments as directed by the SBDO or Director.

Job Specifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, public administration, finance, urban planning, or related field is preferred; equivalent experience can be considered.
• Experience in housing counseling, nonprofit operations, grant management, or a related field.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); experience with Rx Office Client Management System preferred
• Ability to travel throughout Pennsylvania as needed.