DescriptionResponsible for overseeing the execution of workforce development initiatives and oversight of state and community-level partnerships aligned with SME's strategic priorities. This position provides leadership and direction to a team of Program Managers and Project Managers, ensuring effective program delivery, meaningful stakeholder engagement, and measurable outcomes.
This role manages relationships with associations, government agencies, and economic development organizations, and collaborates across SME departments to implement workforce programs in support of long-term organizational objectives.
MAJOR FUNCTIONS:- Execute and oversee partnership initiatives that expand the reach and impact of SME's workforce development programs, in alignment with the strategy and roadmap established by leadership.
- Lead, develop, and manage a team, providing direction, coaching, and feedback to ensure high performance and professional growth.
- Align team structure, roles, and responsibilities with SME's workforce priorities, fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Build and strengthen partnerships at the state and community level by leveraging SME's internal capabilities.
- Identify and cultivate relationships with local/state governments, manufacturing associations, economic development agencies, and similar entities.
- Represent SME at the state and regional level by conducting discovery meetings, assessing collaboration opportunities, evaluating risks, and providing recommendations to support workforce initiatives.
- Manage a portfolio of active partnerships, ensuring alignment with SME's workforce mission and maximizing collective impact.
- Collaborate with internal cross-functional teams to structure, implement, and evaluate partnership initiatives.
- Provide input and recommendations in partnership engagements to support workforce programs, ensuring opportunities align with organizational priorities.
- Lead partner communications and performance evaluations through formal agreements, strategic reviews, and regular reporting.
- Attend industry events to represent SME, present established workforce thought leadership and identify partnership opportunities.
- Maintain accurate and timely reporting on partnership activities, workforce metrics, and program outcomes.
- Support the implementation of SME's workforce strategic planning and business development initiatives.
- Partner with leadership by providing input and operational support to long-term, sustainable growth strategies aligned with organizational goals.
- Support the execution of go-to-market strategies for new workforce products and services by providing input and ensuring effective implementation.
- Participate in shaping SME's thought leadership and market positioning in workforce development by presenting established messaging and providing input based on field experience.
- Support the execution of strategies for targeting specific markets and customer segments by providing input and aligning programs with identified priorities.
- Accountable for ensuring the team delivers high-quality, measurable outcomes aligned with SME's workforce priorities.
- Ensure programs and partnerships are executed in alignment with SME's workforce strategy, providing field insights to leadership to inform ongoing improvements
- Serve as a liaison between leadership and delivery teams, translating strategic priorities into actionable plans and ensuring clear communication and feedback loops.
- Identify and recommend process improvements to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of workforce programs.
- Other duties as assigned
RequirementsMINIMUM EDUCATION, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: - Bachelor's degree in business, public policy, education, workforce development, or a related field required; master's degree preferred.
- At least 10 years of progressive experience in partnerships, business development, workforce development or economic development.
- At least 5 years of experience managing and leading teams, with demonstrated success in talent recruitment, development and retention.
- Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop high-performing teams, including hiring, performance management, and team structure design aligned with organizational strategy and culture.
- Proven success in managing strategic partnerships, particularly with educational institutions, government agencies, nonprofits, associations, or economic development organizations.
- Strong understanding of workforce and talent development ecosystems at the state and national levels.
- Exceptional interpersonal, presentation, and communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders and deliver results aligned to strategic objectives.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve aligned outcomes.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to recommend actionable solutions aligned with organizational goals.
- Proficiency in CRM and project management tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
KEY COMPETENCIES- Collaboration and Cross-Functional Integration
- Leadership
- Team Development and Talent Management
- Relationship Management
- Operational Execution
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
- Communication and Influence
- Continuous Improvement
WORKING CONDITIONS: - Normal office environment
- Primary office location: Southfield, MI
- Regular, in-person attendance required
- Travel required (15% to 20%)
