Strategic Partnerships Officer

Strategic Partnerships Officer

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.

• 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

Fundraising & Financial Engagement

• 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

Community Engagement & Partnerships

• 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

Program Promotion

• 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

Goal-Driven Outreach & Performance Metrics

• 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

• 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

Knowledge, Skills and Competencies:

Position Specific:

• 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

Coe Competencies:

• 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.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

• Typical office setting
• Light and infrequent (up to 15 lbs.) lift/push/pull requirements

Coe College is an equal opportunity employer.