Strategic Director, Experiential Learning & Industry Partnerships

Peru State College; Wayne, Northern (NE, KY); Hybrid; USD 81,000 - 99,000; Full time

Job summary

Wayne State College is seeking an Executive Director of Cooperative Education and Industry Liaison to lead the ongoing development of experiential learning programs, including internships and Career Scholars. The role partners with students, faculty, employers, and community leaders to translate workforce needs into student opportunities.

The ideal candidate will combine program leadership, industry engagement, and project management with strong communication and relationship-building skills.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or equivalent business experience.
• Minimum of five years of related professional work experience.
• Experience working with multiple stakeholders and audiences.
• Ability to lead cooperative education initiatives and build partnerships with industry.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for cooperative education initiatives, specifically the continued development, implementation, assessment, and growth of the Career Scholars program.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve a scalable model that integrates academic learning, career preparation, employer engagement, and meaningful professional experience.
• Serve as the industry liaison for the cooperative education program which includes identifying and cultivating strong working relationships with industry managers and human resource units.
• Develop partnerships with faculty and assist with creating learning outcomes for the cooperative education experience.
• Maintain a current understanding of the industry/field, employers, and positions; including site visits and outreach to potential new employers.
• Monitor participation, retention, student outcomes, and employer engagement; coordinate with campus partners responsible for recruitment, advising, financial aid, and student success.

Skills

Stakeholder engagement

Relationship building

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Master’s degree or equivalent

Job description

Wayne State College is seeking an Executive Director of Cooperative Education and Industry Liaison to lead the ongoing development of experiential learning programs, including internships and Career Scholars. The role partners with students, faculty, employers, and community leaders to translate workforce needs into student opportunities.

The ideal candidate will combine program leadership, industry engagement, and project management with strong communication and relationship-building skills.