FT, Exempt

The Director, Career Advancement is a senior leader responsible for providing strategic vision, planning, administration, and oversight of Alumni engagement and career services that empower Cooke Scholars to build community and find fulfilling professional careers in whatever fields they choose. Reporting to the Vice President, Scholarship Programs, the Director of Career Advancement, principally and with their team, cultivates enduring mutually beneficial relationships with employers, Alumni, and other partners that provide professional development opportunities to undergraduate and graduate Scholars and address industry talent pipeline needs.  The Director will have direct supervision of Alumni Engagement and Career Advancement.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Employer Partnerships and Engagement

• Be a highly visible ambassador of the Cooke Scholar community for the purpose of fostering employer interest in Cooke Scholars
• Develop and execute a strategy to engage and maintain a network of top-tier employer contacts across a range of career industries
• Facilitate Scholar access to employers and stakeholders representing highly desirable internships, fellowships, and full-time employment

Strategic Leadership

• Oversee all aspects of Alumni engagement and career advancement to optimize program offerings, community engagement, technology utilization, and strategic communications
• Activate and support lifelong connections between Cooke Scholars and Alumni inspiring ongoing engagement with the Foundation and community
• Work with the career advancement team to foster strong relationships with Alumni and create opportunities for their continued support of undergraduate and graduate Scholars
• Provide leadership and direction for career services to enhance initiatives such as the internship stipend, the conference and travel stipend, and the Career Pathways Exchange
• Implement data-informed practices, including optimizing CRM systems, to continuously improve outcomes of Alumni engagement and career services
• Deliver training and information to advising staff in partnership with employers, Alumni, and the career advancement team

JOB QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

• Master’s degree required.
• At least seven years of university career services, higher ed advancement, corporate recruitment, or similar related experience.
• Knowledge of best practices in employer-college relations, alumni engagement, major gifts, and/or industry-specific career development.
• Evidence of initiating and stewarding successful collaborations with diverse constituencies, including sought-after employers, major donor prospects, and alumni.
• Energizing leader, trusted colleague, experienced in leading and managing a high-performing team.
• Track record of innovation, creativity, and strategic planning.
• This position will require some travel, with occasional evening and weekend hours for Cooke Scholar and Alumni gatherings and events.

To apply, submit a resume and cover letter through the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Career Center. Cover letters are required to be considered for this position. E-Verify employer. No phone calls please.