At a Glance
- Tasks: Support aspiring entrepreneurs in their journey to self-employment and assess funding applications.
- Company: Join a mission-driven organisation supporting military and emergency service communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance-related pay, flexible working, and 20 days holiday.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with opportunities for personal growth and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by helping others launch their business dreams.
- Qualifications: A-Level or equivalent, with experience in business advice or banking preferred.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ per year.
X-Forces Enterprise (XFE) and X-Emergency Services (XES) are two separate brands helping members of the military and emergency service communities respectively. These communities consist of service leavers, veterans and their family members. Both these brands and their respective organisations are part of the same group; Enterprise ForLife Limited and they have a primary focus on supporting individuals to transition into self-employment and business ownership. The organisations support people in launching their business idea through the provision of business advice, training, access to a knowledge base, access to loan funding, networking and mentoring. We are a business support partner for the British Business Bank Start-Up Loans scheme. Since launch in 2013 we have supported over 4,000 business start-ups, with the provision of over £40,000,000 in funding. We deal with approximately 250 enquiries a month. We are supported by and work with many well-known corporate organisations, including NatWest, Cisco, Amazon and Rolls Royce.
The Role
We are looking for inquisitive, enthusiastic, and approachable professionals who have a keen interest in start-up businesses and the digital economy. Here at Enterprise ForLife, you will be assisting the customers with their own journey into self-employment. You will be a key member of a driven and focused team of advisors who are assessing the viability of funding applications, providing business insights and reviewing relevant supporting documentation.
Main roles and responsibilities:
- Provide ongoing help and support throughout the business loan application process
- Support applicants in creating and developing their business idea and articulating this within a business plan with a financial forecast.
- Be confident in analysing cashflow forecasts and be able to assess affordability and business viability in a highly effective manner
- Ability to use initiative to achieve positive outcomes
- Make funding recommendations in accordance with Start Up Loans credit policy
- Work towards team KPIs and targets
- Participate in business start-up workshops or boot-camps as required
- CRM record keeping ensuring all company records are accurately reflected
- Signpost clients to support organisations or military charities, who may be able to assist in their transition into self-employment
- Provide weekly reports to the management team on case progression
- Liaising with various stakeholders including marketing, events and external entities
The Applicant Requirements
- Ability to interpret and understand financial accounts
- Confidence providing advice and guidance
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and prioritise workload
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel
- Be target driven and self-starting
- A keen interest in supporting the military community
- Strong organisation-related skills
- Ability to influence and persuade other stakeholders at varying levels
- Ability to work flexibly from home and the office
- Experience of providing business start-up advice and/or making funding recommendations/decisions
- Experience of retail or business banking sector
- Excellent interpersonal skills, and an ability to provide applicants with support and guidance in a calm and encouraging manner, taking into consideration the unique issues which customers may be dealing with
- Ideally previous lending experience
- Experience with CRM system Zoho
The Remuneration Package
Competitive Salary depending upon experience. Potential of Performance-Related Pay (PRP) based on performance and delivery of objectives. It is expected that the suitable candidate will achieve the necessary skills to obtain PRP within 6-12 months. There is a contributory pension scheme and 20 days paid holiday plus bank holidays.
Flexible Working Policy
Employees are able to use two and half paid Volunteering Days per annum in relation to the military community.
Company pension
Flexible working arrangements
Schedule: Monday to Friday
Education: A-Level or equivalent (required)
Licence/Certification: Right to work in the UK (required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote or Reading, Berkshire. Applications received after 18 September 2026 may not be considered.
Small Business Loan Advisor, Start-Up Loans in Reading employer: X-Forces Enterprise
X-Forces Enterprise is an exceptional employer dedicated to empowering military veterans and service leavers through meaningful work that transforms lives. With a supportive hybrid work culture based in Reading, employees benefit from tailored training, a contributory pension scheme, and the opportunity to engage in community volunteering, all while making a tangible impact on the entrepreneurial journeys of those they serve. Join us to be part of a passionate team that values empathy, growth, and collaboration in helping individuals achieve their business aspirations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Small Business Loan Advisor, Start-Up Loans in Reading
✨Tip Number 1: Tap Into Professional Networks
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We think you need these skills to ace Small Business Loan Advisor, Start-Up Loans in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
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How to prepare for a job interview at X-Forces Enterprise
✨Brush Up on Technical Skills
Make sure you're comfortable with key financial concepts, especially around forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis. Sometimes, interviewers may throw in technical questions or case studies, so practicing these types of scenarios will help you shine!
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Familiarise yourself with X-Forces Enterprise's financial objectives and any recent developments. During the interview, try to weave your understanding of their business model and challenges into your answers—this shows your genuine interest and alignment with their goals!
