Business Development Officer

About the role

Lafayette Square SBLC is a mission-driven, minority-owned private credit firm that lends capital to growing middle market companies in working-class places across America. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Miami, FL, Lafayette Square operates with a clear and measurable purpose: to invest in businesses that employ working-class people in communities that have historically been overlooked by private credit markets. As an SBA-licensed Small Business Lending Company (SBLC), Lafayette Square is authorized to originate SBA 7(a) loans, expanding access to affordable capital for small business owners in underserved communities nationwide.

Responsibilities

• Originate and develop SBA 7(a) loan opportunities with small business owners in working-class and underserved communities nationwide
• Build and cultivate a robust referral network of bankers, brokers, CDFIs, economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, and community partners
• Serve as a knowledgeable resource for small business borrowers by guiding them through the SBA lending process from initial inquiry to closing
• Collaborate with credit and underwriting teams to structure loans that meet both borrower needs and Lafayette Square's credit standards
• Identify markets and industries aligned with Lafayette Square's place-based, impact-driven investment strategy — including manufacturing, wholesale, transportation, construction, franchising, and healthcare
• Track and manage a pipeline of prospective borrowers using CRM tools, maintaining accurate records of outreach activity and deal flow
• Represent Lafayette Square at national and regional business events, industry conferences, and community engagement opportunities
• Stay current on SBA program guidelines, underserved market trends, and Lafayette Square's evolving impact goals

Qualifications

• Required:
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in business development, SBA lending, commercial lending, or a related field
• Strong working knowledge of SBA 7(a) loan programs, credit structuring, and underwriting fundamentals
• Demonstrated track record of sourcing and closing loans or generating new business
• Deep commitment to economic inclusion and expanding capital access in underserved communities
• Strong communication and relationship management skills across diverse markets and audiences
• Proficiency in CRM platforms and Microsoft Office Suite
• PREFERRED:
• Prior experience with an SBLC, CDFI, BDC, or impact-focused lending institution
• Familiarity with place-based investing, community development finance, or working-class market dynamics
• Existing relationships within underserved or non-coastal business communities
• Experience working with middle market companies in sectors such as manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, or franchising

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary with performance-based incentives
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, and retirement)
• Meaningful work aligned with a bold, measurable social mission
• Exposure to a growing, nationally recognized impact investment platform
• A collaborative, diverse, and entrepreneurial work environment
• Professional development and career growth opportunities