Associate Dean of Workforce Development (Division Operating Officer)

Job Description

The Associate Dean of Workforce Development serves as the Division Operating Officer for the Division of Workforce Development, reporting to the Dean and serving as the Division's operational leader. This role provides executive oversight of day-to-day operations, strategic execution, and administrative functions, ensuring that all programs, resources, and initiatives are aligned with institutional priorities and community workforce needs.

As the principal deputy to the Dean, the Associate Dean has broad authority over operations, budget, personnel, and grants management, and is responsible for translating strategic vision into effective measurable outcomes. The role collaborates closely with the Provost and the Senior Director of Grants and other senior leaders to drive institutional impact and organizational performance.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the operating officer of the Division, with responsibility for operational performance, infrastructure, and execution of strategic Division initiatives.
• Act as the primary deputy to the Dean, with delegated authority to make decisions and lead the Division in the Dean's absence.
• Provide strategic oversight of the Division's budget, including planning, allocation, forecasting, and fiscal accountability.
• Direct and oversee all grants and contracts, including development, compliance, reporting, and long-term sustainability.
• Lead operational strategy and continuous improvement efforts, ensuring efficiency, scalability, and high-quality program delivery.
• Supervise and develop all division professional and administrative staff, trainers/faculty, and coordinators, establishing clear performance expectations and accountability structures.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to identify and secure funding opportunities and expand workforce initiatives.
• Ensure full compliance with institutional policies and state/federal regulations.
• Support and help drive strategic planning, program development, and performance evaluation aligned with labor market data.
• Represent the Division in institutional leadership forums, external partnerships, and workforce development initiatives.
• All other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Master's degree required; doctorate preferred in a related field.
• Significant experience in workforce development, higher education, or a related sector.
• Demonstrated experience in budget management and grant administration.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and strategic planning skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience building partnerships with industry, government, and community organizations.

Preferred Requirements

• Experience in a community college or open-access institution.
• Knowledge of accreditation standards and workforce development programs and best practices.
• Familiarity with student and learning management systems and digital training tools used in industry.
• Experience as a project manager or operations manager in a workforce development or academic environment preferred.

Core Competencies

• Strategic thinking and leadership.
• Collaboration and relationship-building.
• Data-informed decision-making.
• Strong communication and facilitation skills.
• Commitment to student success.