University Outreach Program Manager

Gensler • Chicago, IL

21h

About The Position

Gensler is seeking a University Outreach Program Manager to lead and evolve our firmwide university engagement and early talent strategy. This role is a critical connector between our business and emerging talent—building sustainable pipelines that support growth, innovation, and our long-term hiring strategy. You will serve as both a strategic leader and hands-on program operator, responsible for shaping how Gensler engages with universities, attracts top early-career talent, and delivers best-in-class internship and entry-level programs. This role partners closely with Talent Acquisition, HR, Talent Development, studio leadership, and regional teams to ensure our university strategy reflects the needs of the business while strengthening Gensler’s brand on campus globally.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business, Marketing, or a related field
• 6–10+ years of experience in campus recruiting, university relations, early talent programs, or talent acquisition
• Experience in architecture, design, engineering, consulting, or professional services preferred
• Proven ability to design and scale university recruiting strategies and programs
• Strong network or demonstrated experience working with universities, faculty, and student organizations
• Strategic thinker + hands-on executor—able to set direction while driving day-to-day delivery
• Strong relationship builder with the ability to influence senior stakeholders and external partners
• Excellent project management and organizational skills; able to manage multiple programs and priorities
• Data-driven mindset with the ability to translate insights into action
• Skilled communicator and presenter with strong storytelling and employer branding capabilities
• Ability to thrive in a matrixed, global environment, balancing firmwide strategy with regional needs
• Passion for early career talent development and building inclusive pipelines

Responsibilities

• Lead Firmwide University Strategy: Design and evolve a comprehensive university recruiting and outreach strategy aligned with Gensler’s hiring needs and growth priorities.
• Identify target schools, programs, and markets based on business demand, talent trends, and diversity goals.
• Evaluate current partnerships and recommend where to scale, shift, or invest to maximize impact.
• Build and Manage University Partnerships: Establish and maintain long-term relationships with universities, faculty, student organizations, and career services.
• Represent Gensler as a thoughtful, design-driven employer of choice on campus.
• Identify opportunities for deeper engagement (studio partnerships, sponsorships, curriculum alignment).
• Partner with Talent Development team in elevating Early Talent Programs: Oversee and continuously improve Gensler’s internship and early-career hiring programs as a strategic pipeline.
• Partner with studios and regions to ensure programs are aligned, consistent, and scalable across the Firm.
• Enhance the internship experience, conversion strategies, and long-term talent outcomes.
• Drive Execution and Program Delivery: Lead and coordinate campus recruiting activities, including career fairs, portfolio reviews, events, and outreach campaigns.
• Collaborate with recruiters and studio leaders to deliver high-quality, efficient early-career hiring processes.
• Manage program logistics, timelines, budgets, and cross-functional coordination.
• Partner and Influence Across the Firm: Serve as a trusted advisor to Talent Acquisition, HR, Talent Development and business leadership on early talent strategy.
• Influence hiring decisions through data, insights, and market knowledge.
• Partner across regions to ensure alignment while supporting local market needs and approaches.
• Leverage Data and Insights: Track and analyze pipeline metrics, conversion rates, and program outcomes.
• Identify gaps and opportunities to strengthen candidate quality, diversity, and hiring efficiency.
• Use insights to shape continuous improvement and strategic decision-making.

Benefits

• medical
• dental
• vision
• disability
• wellness programs
• flex spending
• paid holidays
• paid time off
• 401 k
• profit sharing
• employee stock ownership
• twice annual bonus opportunities
• reimbursement for certain professional licenses and associated renewals and exam fees
• reimbursement tuition for certain eligible programs or classes

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level