Program Director of Outreach and Partnerships

Application Due Date: Preference given to applications received by Feb. 21, 2025
Location: Frankfort, KY, with limited telecommuting
Travel: Statewide and limited out-of-state travel
Compensation: $84,000 - $90,000
Retirement: TIAA

The Program Director of Outreach and Partnerships will lead the strategic communication, development, outreach and growth of the Student Access and Success (SAS) Unit, including but not limited to the Student Success Collaborative, Commonwealth Education Continuum, Kentucky Advising Academy, and Futuriti. The director will collaborate with internal and external partners to advance the work of CPE’s Access and Success Unit, serve as an advocate for career and education access, and assist the vice president in coordinating unit priorities and managing special projects.

The ideal candidate is a dynamic leader with a strategic mindset, exceptional communication skills and a passion for education and workforce development.

Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Communication

• Develop and execute a statewide outreach strategy to promote resources and professional development, as well as Futuriti and increase platform engagement across all stakeholder groups statewide.
• Set clear goals and objectives to drive platform adoption and increased engagement in SAS initiatives and measure success.
• Craft strategic communication plans that highlight Futuriti’s value in college and career planning and workforce development.
• Ensure all messaging aligns with CPE’s mission and resonates with diverse audiences across the state.

Program Management

• Oversee the day-to-day operations and strategic growth of SAS initiatives, ensuring alignment with program goals.
• Develop and enhance platform resources, including content, tools and user experience.
• Manage budgets, ensuring financial sustainability and program efficiency.
• Oversee vendor relationships and ensure seamless website maintenance, security and enhancements.

Partnership Development and Collaboration

• Build and sustain relationships with various stakeholders including school districts, adult education centers, unemployment offices, military affairs offices, businesses, chambers of commerce, and community organizations.
• Collaborate with partners to identify and address gaps in education and workforce resources.
• Leverage partnerships to expand the reach and effectiveness of the SAS unit.

Outreach and Engagement

• Create and implement targeted outreach initiatives to increase awareness and usage of Futurti in various settings across the state.
• Represent the SAS Unit and CPE at conferences, meetings, events and media engagements to promote the platform’s mission.
• Develop and deliver presentations that inspire and inform stakeholders about the importance of postsecondary attainment.
• Develop marketing campaigns and communication strategies that effectively reach key audiences.

Fundraising and Grant Management

• Identify funding opportunities, including grants, donations and sponsorships, to support and expand SAS Unit initiatives.
• Prepare compelling grant proposals and manage awarded funds effectively.
• Cultivate relationships with potential funders and stakeholders to secure ongoing support.

Team Leadership

• Collaborate strategically with CPE’s communications team to effectively promote the projects, events and resources of the SAS Unit.
• Work in partnership with the Vice President to prioritize, coordinate and advance key projects and strategic initiatives within the unit.
• Develop and deliver clear and concise agendas, reports and presentations to support unit operations and objectives.
• Lead and manage ad hoc projects and special initiatives, ensuring successful planning, execution and oversight to meet organizational goals.

Evaluation and Reporting

• Establish metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of the SAS Unit’s resources, webinars, and Futuriti’s outreach, communications and partnership strategies.
• Prepare regular reports for leadership and stakeholders to demonstrate program impact.
• Use data and stakeholder feedback to refine outreach efforts and enhance resources.

Qualifications – Education and Experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in communications, Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field; master’s degree in public administration or related field preferred.

Experience

Minimum of five years in strategic communications and program management specific to workforce and education topics.

Skills

• Proven leadership and strategic planning abilities.
• Strong understanding of the comprehensive education system, education and workforce pipelines, and workforce development in Kentucky.
• Excellent written communication, presentation and public speaking, and relationship-building skills.
• Strong program management, budgeting and grant-writing skills.
• Experience in partnership development, stakeholder engagement and advocacy efforts across diverse groups.
• Proficiency with web platform management, analytics and digital communication.
• Passion for improving education access and workforce development across the state.

Application Information

Interested applicants should send a letter of application specifically addressing the responsibilities and qualifications of the position, a resume, and the names, titles, and contact information for at least three professional references to CPE.HR@ky.gov.