Director of Career Services (Higher Ed)
Leading strategic career development and employer partnership programs within higher education institutions.
Overview
A Director of Career Services manages the intersection of student ambition and market demand. The day-to-day work involves a mix of high-level strategic planning, budget management, and the supervision of career counselors and employer relations staff. The rhythm of the role is often dictated by the academic calendar, with intense periods of activity during recruitment seasons and graduation cycles. Success requires navigating complex institutional bureaucracies while maintaining a focus on student success and placement metrics.
The problems solved in this career range from addressing gaps in student professional readiness to cultivating long-term partnerships with global corporations. Those who thrive in this role often possess a deep understanding of labor market trends and have a high capacity for multi-stakeholder communication. It is a position defined by the need for diplomatic leadership, data-driven decision making, and a genuine commitment to the long-term professional advancement of a diverse student population.
Responsibilities
- Develop a comprehensive strategic plan for career programming and student professional development.
- Manage the departmental budget and allocate resources for technology, events, and personnel.
- Cultivate and maintain relationships with key corporate, non-profit, and government employers.