Manager, Career & Professional Development at Howard University in The Oliver

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth. Here is what we offer: Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture Join Howard University and thrive with us! https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness Job Description BASIC FUNCTION: The Manager for Career & Professional Development is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing comprehensive career and professional development initiatives that serve alumni across all career stages. Embedded within the Alumni Relations team, this role strengthens lifelong engagement by equipping alumni with resources, connections, and opportunities that support career mobility, leadership development, and professional success. The position serves as a strategic connector among alumni, students, employers, faculty, and campus partners to advance institutional goals related to alumni engagement, employment outcomes, and reputation. SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY: This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities but collaborates with student workers, volunteers, and campus partners as needed. NATURE AND SCOPE: The Manager operates within the Department of Alumni Relations and works closely with colleagues across Center for Career & Professional Success, The Office of the Secretary, and Schools/Colleges. The role interacts frequently with students, recent graduates, student leaders, campus departments, alumni volunteer groups, and external stakeholders. The Manager exercises sound judgment, discretion, and initiative in program development, external engagement, and cross‑functional collaboration. Work is primarily strategic and programmatic in nature, requiring strong relationship‑building skills, data‑informed decision‑making, and the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously. The role has institution‑wide impact and regularly interfaces with senior administrators, alumni leaders, employers, and campus stakeholders. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES: Design, implement, and manage a comprehensive suite of career and professional development programs and services for alumni at all career stages, including early‑career, mid‑career, and executive‑level professionals. Develop and execute a strategic vision for alumni career engagement that aligns with institutional priorities, Alumni Relations goals, and workforce trends. Plan, coordinate, and deliver high‑quality programming, including workshops, webinars, panels, mentoring initiatives, networking events, and industry‑focused career experiences (virtual and in person). Build and maintain strong partnerships with employers, alumni, industry leaders, professional associations, and campus units to expand career opportunities and experiential learning connections. Serve as a subject‑matter resource for alumni career development, including career transitions, leadership development, entrepreneurship, graduate education pathways, and professional skill‑building. Collaborate closely with Student Career Services, Academic Affairs, Development, Corporate Relations, and other campus partners to ensure a seamless career development ecosystem bridging students and alumni. Develop and manage alumni mentoring, shadowing, and career‑navigation initiatives that connect alumni with students and fellow alumni. Establish and oversee systems to track alumni career engagement, program participation, employer partnerships, and o