Workforce Development Manager

Inspiration Corporation•Chicago, IL

28d•$65,000 - $70,000

About The Position

In an atmosphere of dignity and respect, Inspiration Corporation connects people and creates opportunity through access to social services, job training, housing, and food. Each year, Inspiration Corporation works with hundreds of resilient Chicagoans who face systemic disparities and inequities, such as homelessness, hunger, and social isolation. In order to help individuals and families overcome these barriers, we provide dedicated support coupled with housing, job training, scholarships, meals and engagement services. Inspiration Corporation meets people where they are in life, helping them access the support they need and achieve their personal goals. Inspiration Corporation programs are voluntary, and all service needs and goals are participant-driven. Our case management philosophy is strengths-based and trauma-informed. Inspiration Corporation practices harm reduction and focuses on reducing or minimizing the harm associated with high-risk behavior through motivational interviewing. At Inspiration Corporation, employees embody our mission by demonstrating the following Core Values: Integrity – We cultivate trusting, collaborative relationships rooted in mutual respect and accountability. Growth – We encourage personal development, curiosity and being open to new possibilities. Equity – We recognize each person’s inherent rights and advocate for inclusive access to resources and opportunities. Resilience – We persevere and seek solutions that celebrate our strength in the face of adversity, while practicing and encouraging self-care. Hospitality – We create uplifting, accepting, and nourishing connections with everyone who comes through our doors. Inspiration Corporation believes that these values are central to our work with participants and one another, and they create a culture we all have a stake in. The Workforce Development Manager is responsible for overseeing the recruitment, intake, foodservice and career development training, case management, job placement and job retention components of Inspiration Corporation’s workforce development programs to support the success of participants in meeting their employment and economic security goals. The programs currently include Foodservice Training and Employment and the Lori & Ron Jericho Memorial Education Fund. The Workforce Development Manager supervises a team of 5-6 staff at present (2Case Managers, Lead Chef Instructor, Employment Specialist, a Chef Trainer and a Kitchen Training Specialist. The position serves on Senior Leadership Team, Leadership Team and reports to the Chief Program Officer. The Workforce Development Manager and team are part of the Social Enterprise team at Inspiration Kitchens, along with the Restaurant and Catering Operations team – responsible for achieving the goals of Inspiration Kitchens.

Requirements

Four or more years of related experience are required.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university, or equivalent experience, is required.
Strong computer skills are essential, including proficiency in Windows operating systems and Microsoft Office.

Nice To Haves

Experience with supervising staff and reporting on government contracts such as Department of Family Support Services, SNAP Employment and Training, Job Training and Economic Development, etc. are also preferred.

Responsibilities

Demonstrate Inspiration Corporation’s Core Values.
Exhibit professionalism and high standards in all aspects of performance.
Ensure the efficient and effective delivery of services with dignity and respect in accordance with the agency’s mission.
Work with all departments as appropriate to ensure that the needs of the agency’s participants are addressed.
Attend department, cross-department and agency meetings. Serve on agency Senior Leadership Team and Leadership Team. Attend Board of Director meetings. Attend and present in Board committee meetings as requested.
Manage the work of workforce development staff to ensure the delivery of high-quality services, including hiring, supervision, regular one-on-one check-ins, staff development and completion of required trainings and performance review and evaluation.
Oversee and assist with the implementation of all workforce development programming including: 1) participant recruitment, intake, assessment, enrollment and referral partner relationships and referral processes; 2) participant training, job readiness skill development, technological literacy, job placement and retention services, wrap-around service provision internally and through external partners; 3) supporting navigation of long-term career pathways; 4) employer engagement strategy and employer recruitment; and 5) participant graduation ceremonies and recognition events for employers, participants and other key stakeholders; (6) peer support and graduate engagement.
Provide leadership to ensure successful collaboration of workforce development and social enterprise activities, including restaurant and catering operations, training and support, transitional jobs employment, unsubsidized employment goals and career advancement.
Ensure the delivery of quality services for all program participants.
Meet or exceed goals for workforce development programs and social enterprise.
With Chief Program Officer, establish agency policy and protocol in the area of workforce development.
Work with Chief Program Officer to develop new or modify existing workforce services to meet the needs of program participants, the agency’s goals and principles, and the requirements of program funders. Modify or develop new programs, policies and protocols as needed.
Ensure excellence in data quality through appropriate and timely record-keeping, data collection and reporting, including physical and electronic information, as required for internal management and external funding sources and regulatory agencies. Prepare for and oversee program audits.
Support the Finance Department in preparing and monitoring the program’s budget. Manage discretionary costs, ensure accuracy and timeliness of records and reporting, stay within budget, and make realistic budget projections.
Support marketing and communications efforts through collaboration with Development, Restaurant and Catering Operations, and Executive Teams. Lead or participate in site visits from public and private funders.
Lead or contribute to the preparation of government contract applications and private funding for the program in conjunction with the Executive Team, Finance and Development Departments.
Utilize latest data and current thinking within the workforce development field to inform the program development process. Attend appropriate external workshops and seminars and participate with internal planning processes. Partner with other programs, including Housing and Homeless Engagement Services, to advance the mission of the agency.
Stay abreast of and research potential funding opportunities to support the program.
Develop and maintain relationships with other nonprofit organizations to support recruitment efforts and locate and coordinate support services for clients
Responsible for the Lori & Ron Jericho Memorial Education Funds program, including: recruitment, enrollment, submitting or overseeing financial support of scholars, recording and reporting data; ensuring participant completion, employment and retention metrics are met and relevant data collected.
Represent the agency at contractor meetings and to the community through participation in site visits; membership in professional organizations; participation at relevant events and with collaborative organizations; and involvement in the communities that surround the agency’s service area.
Respond to and resolve participant complaints, concerns, and grievances when they cannot be resolved by other program staff.