Associate Director, Employer Partnerships Co-op

Role Overview

The Associate Director of Employer Partnership – Co-op provides strategic leadership for cultivating, managing, and expanding partnerships with employers who provide paid cooperative education opportunities for DePaul University business undergraduates.

What You Will Do

Designs and implements an employer partnership development strategy, cultivates relationships with decision-makers, negotiates Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), and manages a portfolio of accounts.

Why It Might Be a Fit

The role requires a strategic thinker with strong sales and relationship management skills, deep knowledge of the Chicagoland business community, and the ability to position DePaul as partner in employer talent development strategies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and related experience required
• Minimum 6 years of progressive experience in employer relations, partnership development, sales, recruiting, talent acquisition, or business development
• At least 3 years of supervisory or leadership experience managing professional staff
• Proficiency with CRM systems (Salesforce preferred), job posting platforms (Handshake preferred), and Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong analytical skills with ability to use data to inform strategy and demonstrate impact
• Project management skills and ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Higher Education, Career Development, Marketing, or related field preferred
• Experience launching or scaling co-op or internship programs
• Established network within Chicago business community
• Experience negotiating contracts or MOUs
• Knowledge of accounting, finance, and business career pathways
• Experience with assessment and program evaluation
• Exceptional relationship-building and networking skills with ability to cultivate partnerships at all organizational levels
• Strong consultative sales skills and ability to position value propositions effectively
• Strategic thinking and business acumen with ability to identify opportunities and develop growth strategies
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in employer partnerships and student access to opportunities
• Entrepreneurial mindset and comfort working in a startup program environment

Benefits

• Top choice medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Retirement plan matching contribution of 8%
• Tuition waivers for employees and dependents
• Generous paid time off, sick time, holidays, floating holidays, and more!