Workforce Development Manager

MHi seeks a Workforce Development Manager who will lead MHI's Workforce Development initiatives to inspire, recruit, develop, and retain a diverse, skilled workforce for the material handling industry. This role requires strategic program management, partnership building, and a focus on underrepresented demographics to support MHI's mission and its members' workforce needs. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Program Leadership and Strategy:   

• Oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of workforce development initiatives (e.g., automation, sustainability, labor scarcity), ensuring alignment with MHI’s strategic objectives.   
• Develop a 3–5 year roadmap for sustainable growth, including Inspire, Recruit, Develop, and Retain pillars.   
• Manage budgets and resources to support initiatives effectively.  
• Leading cross-functional teams for program delivery. 

Stakeholder Engagement:   

• Build and maintain partnerships with educational institutions, NGOs, and industry organizations to enhance program reach and effectiveness.   
• Work closely with MHI and WERC members to provide mentorship opportunities, internships, apprenticeships, and other career pathways.   
• Represent MHI at events like FIRST Robotics, SkillsUSA NLSC, and the ASCA Annual Conference.   

Program Implementation:   

• Plan and execute key initiatives, such as MHI Regional Student Events and industry-related-sponsored competitions.   
• Develop and manage a comprehensive careers page with resources like job postings, educational guides, and industry insights.   
• Promote diversity and inclusion by engaging underrepresented groups through specialized programs and sponsorships.   
• Lead the planning and execution of MHI’s participation in events such as ASCA, PRN Discovery Day, SkillsUSA, and regional student outreach programs. 
• Oversee booth design, layout, and content to ensure alignment with MHI’s workforce development goals and messaging. 

Sponsorship Activation: 

Manage MHI's Sponsorship Programs: Oversee MHI's participation in workforce-related events, competitions, and conferences, ensuring sponsorships align with the Inspire, Recruit, Develop, and Retain pillars. 

MHI Inspires Fund Administration:  

• Lead the management of the MHI Inspires Fund, a matching sponsorship program that matches member donations to local workforce development programs. 
• Collaborate with MHI members to identify and support impactful local initiatives through the Inspires Fund. 
• Track and report on the impact of matched sponsorships to showcase the program's value to members and the community. 

Unmatched Sponsorships: 

• Allocate and manage a dedicated budget for unmatched sponsorships that align with MHI's workforce development strategy. 
• Prioritize funding for initiatives that engage underrepresented groups or support high-impact, scalable programs. 

Deliverables and Branding Opportunities: 

• Work closely with sponsored organizations to define clear deliverables, branding opportunities, and MHI’s role in sponsorship activities. 
• Ensure all sponsorships include robust branding placements, such as logo inclusion, acknowledgment in marketing materials, and on-site visibility. 

Marketing and Outreach:   

• Collaborate with the marketing team to create and execute campaigns promoting workforce initiatives.   
• Develop follow-up engagement strategies post-events to maintain connections with participants.   
• Use success stories and testimonials to highlight program impact.   

Data Tracking and Reporting:   

• Establish metrics for program success, including engagement, diversity, and placement rates.   
• Regularly report on progress, outcomes, and areas for improvement to stakeholders.   

Qualifications: 

Education:  

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Business Administration, Workforce Development, or a related field.   

Experience:   

• Minimum of 5 years in workforce development, educational program management, or a related role.   
• Proven experience working with diverse audiences, including students, educators, and industry professionals.   
• Strong background in partnership building and program implementation.   

Skills:   

• Exceptional organizational and project management abilities.   
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage diverse stakeholders.   
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools.   
• Familiarity with digital platforms and career resource development.   

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Experience in the material handling, logistics, or STEM education sectors.   
• Knowledge of diversity and inclusion best practices.  
• Experience leading multi-stakeholder initiatives or coalition-building projects. 

Key Competencies: 

• Strategic thinking and planning.   
• Collaboration and teamwork.   
• Proactive problem-solving and adaptability.