Strategic Partnerships Officer

Coe College•Cedar Rapids, IA

70d

About The Position

Coe College seeks a dynamic and driven Strategic Partnerships Officer to serve as a connector between the college and the regional business community. This individual will champion Coe's educational offerings-including online degrees, microcredentials, and workforce-aligned programs as well as services provided by C3: Creativity, Careers, Community-while cultivating relationships that lead to philanthropic support, strategic partnerships, and long-term collaboration. The role would also support broader strategic initiatives aimed at aligning Coe's singular experience and education with workforce development needs. The ideal candidate thrives on being self-motivated to set and exceed goals, and brings tenacity, creativity, and a deep belief in the value of liberal arts education.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree (Master's preferred)
Demonstrated success in business development, employer relations, or strategic partnerships
Exceptional communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills
Familiarity with workforce development, talent attraction, and the higher education landscape
Ability to collaborate across departments and think strategically about mutual benefit
Proven success in making financial asks and securing support from corporate or community partners
Tenacity, self-motivation, and a results-oriented mindset with a passion for Coe's mission
Applicants must be currently authorized to work for ANY employer in the United States as we are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time
Successful completion of a background check in accordance with Coe College policy
Ability to embrace and adapt to the challenging and changing best practices of fundraising.
Excellent verbal and communication skills
Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a timely manner.
Ability to work effectively under pressure
Strong attention to detail and thorough completion of tasks
Strong proficiency in computer skills and database management
Highly organized with ability to implement systems and follow-up processes
Dedication to the educational mission of a private, residential liberal arts college.
Ability to maintain positive relationships in a collaborative and diverse team atmosphere.
Commitment to excellent customer and/or student service.
Demonstrated ethical and responsible decision making.
Consistent attendance and accountability necessary to meet position objectives.

Responsibilities

Provide insights to internal stakeholders to shape programming in response to industry trends
Collaborate with academic and administrative leaders to ensure offerings meet regional workforce needs
Contribute to strategic planning efforts that position Coe as a leader in education-to-employment pathways
Proactively identify and cultivate business leaders for philanthropic support of Coe College initiatives
Make direct financial asks in support of scholarships, program development, and strategic priorities
Develop customized proposals and stewardship plans for corporate donors and sponsors
Partner with Advancement colleagues to align employer engagement with broader fundraising strategies
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with local and regional employers, Economic Alliance teams, nonprofit organizations, and industry groups
Serve as a liaison between Coe/C3 and the business community to identify and create new opportunities for Coe students as well as shared opportunities for Coe and the business
Organize events, roundtables, and networking sessions that foster mutual benefit and collaboration
Work closely with C3 and Alumni Engagement teams to bridge student and employer connections
Develop strategies to market and promote the college's online degrees, credentials and certifications, workforce-oriented programs. Additional promotion of C3 and collaboration with that team to enhance relationships and opportunities for Coe students
Collaborate with marketing and academic teams to create tailored outreach campaigns
Conduct needs assessments with employers and recommend Coe programs that align with their talent development goals
Set and meet ambitious daily, weekly, monthly, and annual goals for outreach, meetings, presentations, and financial asks
Maintain a robust pipeline of prospective partners and donors using Raiser's Edge, Handshake and other tracking tools
Track and report progress toward engagement and fundraising benchmarks