Sergio Alvares, former senior associate at JPMorgan Chase & Co., has been named statewide adviser for strategic projects at the Vermont Small Business Development Center in Randolph Center.

In his new role, Alvares helps small-business owners optimize their time and money and reduce business risks by incorporating his expertise in finance, technology and cybersecurity. He also assists clients with the process of purchasing or selling a business through financial valuations and in-depth financial analysis.