ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW
STRIVE is a national leader in workforce development solutions, empowering individuals to discover their best future selves through innovative, evidence-based career training and holistic, lifelong support. Founded in East Harlem, NY, in 1984, STRIVE has expanded to offer programs across the country, partnering with employers, funders, and community organizations to close workforce gaps and boost local economies.
Our tuition-free programs include skills and job readiness training, one-on-one support, and lifetime coaching, preparing students for careers in high-growth sectors such as healthcare, construction, and logistics. With a focus on outcomes, 80% of students graduate, 76% find employment, and 70% maintain employment long-term. We aim to serve up to 10,000 individuals annually by 2033 as part of our ten-year growth plan.
We provide tailored, free programs for adults 18+ including those impacted by the justice system. Learn more in our 3-minute mission video.
POSITION SUMMARY
We are seeking a results-oriented, social justice-minded leader with experience in program, performance, and team management to support the expansion of our Birmingham office. The Program Director will lead the development and growth of the Career Path program, ensuring its sustainability, and support participants in developing skills, attitudes, and behaviors for self-sufficiency and upward mobility.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Hire, supervise, and support a diverse, high-performing team to serve students and achieve program outcomes, including career readiness, skills training completion, successful job placement, and long-term retention through data analysis, coaching, and staff development.
2. Enhance STRIVE’s presence in Birmingham’s workforce development community by cultivating partnerships with workforce boards, funders, social service agencies, faith-based organizations, parole and probation offices, and referral sources.
3. Develop and support the implementation of STRIVE Birmingham’s career pathway program in collaboration with the Executive Director and team.
4. Build strong partnerships with local organizations providing supportive services such as benefits access, financial literacy, housing, mental health, and career advancement.
5. Research labor market data, trends, and employer insights to inform sectoral pathway development and identify training providers to meet program goals.
6. Develop MOUs and contracts with partners and vendors.
7. Create and maintain program flowcharts, manuals, systems, policies, and procedures.
8. Innovate to meet the evolving needs of the target population and staff.
9. Manage invoicing, data collection, reporting, file maintenance, and operational duties.
10. Ensure sufficient enrollment to meet contractual obligations, reaching retention and advancement milestones.
11. Report to program funders and stakeholders.
12. Utilize Apricot or similar systems to generate reports and monitor data.
QUALIFICATIONS
* Bachelor’s Degree required
* Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in workforce development or sector-based training
* Business development experience preferred
* Knowledge of youth development, programming, and current industry trends
* Familiarity with career-focused education and workforce programs
* Strong management and leadership skills with the ability to motivate staff and exceed service expectations
* Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
* Excellent attention to detail and multi-project management in a fast-paced environment
* Strong interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills
* Experience in a startup environment is a plus
Location: In-person, Monday-Friday, in the field at STRIVE Birmingham.
BENEFITS
We offer comprehensive benefits including health plans, retirement, life insurance, PTO, family leave, disability coverage, employee assistance, legal and accident insurance, critical illness coverage, pre-tax commuter and FSA plans, summer Fridays, financial literacy programs, and flexible work schedules.
STRIVE is committed to diversity and inclusion, considering applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, medical conditions, genetic information, or disability.
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