Relationship Manager, Researcher - United States Financial Diaries Project

Experienced Relationship Managers: Researcher - United States Financial Diaries Project

Background:
Led by the Financial Access Initiative (FAI) at New York University in collaboration with EA Consultants, the US Small Firm Diaries project aims to delve into the barriers hindering the growth of small firms in the United States. The study places particular emphasis on exploring challenges within low-income neighborhoods and businesses led by minorities and women. The study will play a crucial role in shaping policies and initiatives that foster inclusive economic growth and a more resilient and equitable landscape for small businesses across the United States.

Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, our research combines quantitative data analysis from small business financial transactions with qualitative insights gathered through interviews and surveys. This holistic methodology allows us to capture the multifaceted nature of barriers faced by small businesses, ensuring a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the challenges at hand. Most of the quantitative information comes from small business accounting software and, in some cases, directly from their accountants.

The collaboration between FAI and EA Consultants underscores a commitment to merging academic rigor with practical insights. Leveraging the expertise of both entities, the project creates a unique platform for researchers to engage with real-world challenges, fostering a dynamic synergy that enriches the quality of our research.

Responsibilities:
We are seeking a Relationship Manager for this 1-2 year project who can work with busy small businesses and learn from them about their financial lives and challenges through regular calls and emails, collection of accurate data from QuickBooks, and Monthly interviews. The Relationship Manager should be comfortable working alone and on teams. They should have command of excel, Zoom, Google drive, Dropbox and Quickbooks technologies as well as use email regularly and be open to communicating on WhatsApp or group chats with the team. The consultant should have time to dedicate a minimum of 20 hours a week and a maximum of 40 hours a week to the project during office hours, with some flexibility for occasional contact in evenings and weekends.

Expected activities:

• Be responsible for a portfolio of 10-20 firms over a 12-15 month period.
• Communicate with small businesses on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis.
• Participate in daily updates with supervisors via email, SMS, or phone.
• Participate in weekly team meetings and training sessions.
• Anonymize and review financial documents and records of small businesses.

Documentation:

• Maintain organized and detailed documentation of financial data, analysis methodologies, and findings.
• Ensure the confidentiality of the research data.
• Prepare clear and concise reports summarizing key research outcomes.

Remote Work:

• Work independently in a remote setting, demonstrating self-motivation and commitment to meeting project deadlines.
• Engage in regular virtual meetings with project team members and stakeholders to ensure smooth communication.

Qualifications:

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Bachelor's degree or experience as a small business owner or manager.
• Proven experience in bookkeeping, with a strong understanding of business practices.
• Proficiency in QuickBooks software is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively within a virtual team environment.
• Prior experience in running a small business, small business consulting, research, or financial analysis is a plus.

Collaborative Environment:
As a Researcher, you will be an integral part of a collaborative and dynamic consortium of researchers. Regular team meetings and collaboration sessions provide opportunities to share insights, discuss findings, and contribute to the overall success of the project. The collaborative nature of the work ensures a supportive environment where your contributions are valued.

Professional Development:
The United States Financial Diaries Project offers a unique chance for professional growth within the realms of financial research and analysis. Engaging in cutting-edge research, you will enhance your skills in financial data interpretation, analysis, and reporting. The project's affiliation with New York University and EA Consultants provides exposure to a network of experts and resources, contributing to your ongoing professional development.

Application Process:
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume, cover letter, and any relevant work samples to bmagnoni@eac-global.com. In your cover letter, please highlight your experience in customer service or relationship management, small business, bookkeeping, proficiency in QuickBooks, and your motivation for contributing to this impactful research project. The application deadline is March 31, 2024, and successful candidates will be notified for interviews shortly thereafter.

EA Consultants and the Financial Access Initiative at New York University are committed to promoting diversity and equal opportunity in the workplace. We encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.

Note: This is a remote position, and candidates from any location within the United States are welcome to apply.

Job Types: Part-time, Contract

Pay: From $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 40 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Schedule:

• Choose your own hours
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: Remote