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Whitworth University, a private institution committed to academic excellence and community engagement, seeks a visionary and collaborative Director, Workforce Development to lead strategic initiatives that respond to regional workforce needs and promote career-aligned education. Based in Spokane—an emerging hub for healthcare, advanced manufacturing, technology, and nonprofit leadership—the Director will drive partnerships and develop programs that enhance the university’s impact on economic and workforce development across Eastern Washington and the Inland Northwest.Program Oversight | 40%

• Oversee day-to-day operations, budgeting, marketing, evaluation and staff for workforce and continuing education programs on Whitworth LEARN .
• Oversee academic operations, budgeting, and staffing for the Brewing Science Program.
• Oversee implementation and ongoing maintenance for a Learning and Employment Record in the School of Continuing Studies.
• Regularly report on program performance and provide insights to senior leadership regarding trends, opportunities and areas for improvement
• Lead efforts in ensuring programs meet all regulatory and compliance standards

Vision and Strategy | 30%

• In collaboration with the dean and program directors, develop and lead a workforce development strategy for the School of Continuing Studies that aligns with Spokane's regional economic priorities and industry needs.
• Identify opportunities to expand non-credit programs, micro-credentials, certifications, and customized corporate training solutions, via Whitworth LEARN.
• Lead grant development and external funding initiatives related to workforce and economic development.
• Analyze labor market and student outcome data to assess program impact and inform continuous improvement.
• Advocate for Whitworth’s role in workforce innovation through public speaking, regional task forces, and national forums.

Partnership and Collaboration | 20%

• Build strong partnerships with local employers, workforce boards, industry associations, and government agencies to ensure relevant and future-forward programming.
• Collaborate with academic directors to connect degree pathways with industry-recognized skills and credentials.
• Serve as a liaison between the university and key regional stakeholders, including Greater Spokane Incorporated, Spokane Workforce Council, and Washington State agencies.
• Work closely with the enrollment and marketing team for adult education to promote credit for prior learning and stackable credentials that increase enrollment

Additional Responsibilities | 10%

• Serve as a member of the SCS Dean’s leadership team, using strengths-based leadership to create a culture of collaboration and innovation.
• Serve on University governance committees as appropriate, including Academic Leadership Council.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Master's or terminal degree from an accredited college or university in a related field (e.g., education, business, community development, etc.); on-the-job learning in higher education will be considered for degree equivalency.
• Three years of experience in workforce development, public administration, higher education, or community development.
• Budget management experience at the unit or departmental level.
• Experience with or strong interest in online program or curricular design.
• Experience supervising and mentoring professional colleagues, including effective listening and the ability to provide developmental feedback.
• Professional or service experience that has prepared you to contribute to Whitworth’s commitment tobeing a learning community of equity and belonging.
• A personal commitment to the Christian faith and to the integration of faith and learning.
• A commitment to the educational mission of Whitworth University as a comprehensive Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian church
• Available to work varied hours, including evenings and weekends when needed.

Core Competencies

• Knowledge of workforce development trends, organizations, and efforts, both regionally and nationally.
• Strong analytical skills, focused in particular upon program effectiveness, enrollment trends, and student assessments.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Clear organizational skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong team player, able to take initiative and operate independently.
• Computer proficiency and a commitment to technology integration in teaching and administration.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills, including the ability to work successfully with others in a collaborative office environment and as a member of a team, and to interact positively with students and the public.
• Demonstrated student focus or customer service orientation.
• A high level of personal integrity and professionalism.

Preferred

• Credentials or training in learning design and/or credential innovation.
• Experience with credit for prior learning and prior learning assessments.
• Experience with, or working knowledge of, online degree programs for working adults and awareness of trends and issues facing higher education.
• Demonstrated training in and/or experience in implementing anti-racism, diversity, and inclusion-related materials or pedagogical practices in credit-bearing courses, certificate programs, or professional development type trainings, workshops, or seminars.
• Experience with grant writing, oversight, and reporting.

Full-time (1.0 FTE) | 12 months | 40 hours per week
Whitworth office hours are 8 AM to 4:30 PM Monday–Friday
Whitworth University is a Christian liberal arts university. Our shared mission is to provide our diverse students with an education of mind and heart, equipping them to honor God, follow Christ, and serve humanity. We seek candidates who are willing to engage with the university’s mission and integrate their Christian faith into their work.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, faith statement, and contact information for at least three professional references. A background check and sexual misconduct check will be required of the successful candidate.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain valid work authorization throughout the duration of employment, including those on OPT. Whitworth University does not offer visa sponsorship for this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr