Director, Workforce Connections and Career Services

Director, Workforce Connections and Career Services

The Director of Workforce Connections and Career Services provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for a newly established department focused on career development, employer engagement, and employment outcomes in support of both academic and workforce programs at Virginia Peninsula Community College (VPCC). This position is responsible for building and implementing a proactive, outcomes-driven career services model that strengthens employer partnerships, supports the college's efforts to align programs with high-demand careers, and advances VPCC's role as a regional talent pipeline. Working collaboratively across the College and with regional industry partners, the Director leads efforts to expand work-based learning opportunities and drive coordinated job placement strategies for program completers. The position also establishes performance metrics, oversees career tracking and reporting systems, and leverages labor market data to inform strategy and continuous improvement. Through effective leadership and cross-divisional collaboration, the Director ensures equitable access to career opportunities and measurable employment outcomes for students.

The search will remain open until September 27, 2026; however, to be considered for the initial screening, candidates should submit a complete application package by September 10, 2026. This is a full-time, restricted classified position. Continuation of employment is based on funding availability. This position is designated as Campus Security Authority (Clery Act) and Responsible Employee (Title IX).

Special Assignments - May be required to perform other duties as assigned. May be required to assist the agency or state government generally in the event of an emergency declaration by the Governor.

KSA's/Required Qualifications - Required: Progressive professional experience in career services, workforce development, employer engagement, talent development, or a related field. Demonstrated experience building and managing partnerships with employers or industry stakeholders. Experience supporting career development, job placement, or work-based learning initiatives. Experience using data and performance metrics to assess outcomes and inform decision-making. Knowledge of workforce development systems, career services models, and job placement strategies. Knowledge of regional labor market trends, high-demand industries, and talent pipeline development. Knowledge of work-based learning models, including internships, apprenticeships, and employer-sponsored training. Knowledge of data collection, performance metrics, and outcome reporting (e.g., placement rates, wages, retention). Knowledge of higher education operations, including both academic and noncredit/workforce programs. Knowledge of employer engagement practices and partnership development strategies. Skill in building and sustaining strategic partnerships with employers and industry stakeholders. Skill in leading job placement initiatives and aligning students with employment opportunities. Skill in analyzing labor market data and using insights to inform program and placement strategies. Skill in developing and implementing performance metrics and reporting systems. Skill in supervising staff, managing budgets, and leading organizational initiatives. Skill in planning and executing hiring events, employer engagement activities, and career programming. Skill in effective communication, including presentations, relationship management, and stakeholder engagement. Ability to develop and implement a comprehensive, outcomes-driven career services model. Ability to collaborate effectively across divisions and with external partners. Ability to align career services programming with workforce needs and employment opportunities. Ability to use data to drive decision-making and continuous improvement. Ability to manage multiple priorities and initiatives in a fast-paced environment. Ability to ensure equitable access to career opportunities for diverse student populations. Ability to represent the College in regional workforce and economic development initiatives.

Additional Considerations - Bachelor's degree in higher education, workforce development, business administration, public administration, or a related field. Master's degree in higher education administration, business, public administration, or a related field. Experience in a higher education setting, community college preferred. Experience supervising staff and managing budgets or programs. Experience working with workforce training programs (e.g., noncredit/FastForward or similar initiatives). Experience with labor market analysis, workforce systems, or economic development partnerships. Relevant professional certifications (e.g., Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP), Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF), or similar).

Operation of a State Vehicle - Yes

Supervises Employees - Yes

Required Travel - Minimal