Senior Director, Career Development & Partnerships

Eastern Michigan University; Ypsilanti (MI); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Eastern Michigan University seeks a dynamic Senior Director of Career Development to lead the University Career Development Center, partnering across the university to reimagine how students translate education into meaningful careers. The role focuses on building a robust career development ecosystem from early student experiences through graduation and beyond.

The Director will drive strategic programs, partnerships with employers, alumni, faculty and staff, and innovative approaches including

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Higher Education, College Student Personnel, Counseling, HR, Business, Communications, Marketing, or a related field is required.
• At least five years of progressive experience in career development, higher education, workforce development, or related areas.
• Experience supervising, developing, or leading staff.
• Ability to develop and implement programs, initiatives, or partnerships from concept to execution.
• Strong interpersonal, written, verbal, organizational, and collaborative leadership skills.
• Experience with technology, data, and assessment to improve programs.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for development, assessment, and improvement of EMU career programs and initiatives.
• Develop a comprehensive vision for integrating career exploration throughout the student experience.
• Build partnerships with colleges, departments, alumni, and external partners.
• Lead strategies to engage students early in career exploration and professional development.
• Coordinate employer engagement, internships, and experiential learning opportunities.
• Oversee career fairs, events, and outreach to strengthen career readiness.
• Ensure programs are accessible to EMU's diverse student population.
• Guide marketing and digital resources for the Career Development Center.

Skills

Leadership

Staff supervision

Strategic planning

Partner development

Data-driven decision making

Education

Master's degree in Higher Education or related field

Tools

CRM systems

Career management platforms

Digital engagement tools

Job description

Eastern Michigan University seeks a dynamic Senior Director of Career Development to lead the University Career Development Center, partnering across the university to reimagine how students translate education into meaningful careers. The role focuses on building a robust career development ecosystem from early student experiences through graduation and beyond.

The Director will drive strategic programs, partnerships with employers, alumni, faculty and staff, and innovative approaches including