Workforce Development Director

Overview:

The Louisville Urban League (LUL) is a nonprofit, community-based organization dedicated to economic empowerment, equity, and social justice for African Americans and other marginalized communities in the Louisville, Kentucky area. As an affiliate of the National Urban League, it focuses on advancing racial equity through programs and initiatives that help in attaining social and economic equality through education, job training, housing, community development, and advocacy. LUL works to empower individuals, strengthen families, and uplift the community by addressing systemic inequities and fostering pathways to success. LUL is seeking a Workforce Development Director to lead efforts in expanding job training, employment opportunities, and career advancement programs that support the organization’s mission of economic empowerment.

About the Role:

The Workforce Development Director is a dynamic and visionary leader responsible for the strategic development, implementation, administration, and oversight of all programs and services offered through the Center for Workforce Development. Reporting to the Chief Operation Officer, the Director cultivates community partnerships and employer relationships to enhance program services while acquiring and managing grant funding for program sustainability. This role plays a critical part in driving our mission to assist individuals in attaining economic equality through career counseling, job training, and connection to career opportunities. The Workforce Development (WD) department is the largest program at LUL and this role will manage a staff of 14.

Your Key Responsibilities:

Program Delivery and Innovation

• Responsible for the daily management of multiple programs, activities, and functions of the Center for Workforce Development (CWD) serving hundreds of participants in the area annually
• Designs and implements innovative workforce development programs that address the needs of diverse populations, including underserved communities
• Oversees the delivery of high-quality training programs that equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the workforce
• Oversees and participates in curriculum development for various CWD workshops and training modules
• Ensures effective outreach and engagement activities to promote program awareness and attract participants
• Stays informed about emerging trends and best practices in workforce development

Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement

• Provides strategic guidance and leadership to the workforce development team
• Recruits and manages a team of skilled trainers and facilitators
• Identifies and collaborates with community partners, employers, educational institutions, and other key stakeholders to create a comprehensive workforce development ecosystem
• Cultivates and maintains strong relationships with employers, identifying workforce needs and aligning training programs accordingly
• Represents the agency at community events and forums and attends meetings, webinars, and/or conferences on behalf of the President & CEO or other department leads when needed

Operations, Budget, and Performance Management

• Develops and manages program budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability
• Identifies and maintains funding sources to operate CWD programs and activities, including developing and writing grant proposals to obtain funds to continue or expand program services
• Involved in developing and monitoring the CWD's annual budget to ensure the appropriateness of all direct program expenditures
• Ensures that appropriate data collection tools are in place and client information is properly stored and input into the League’s required database and technology systems
• Establishes and monitors key performance indicators to measure program outcomes and impact
• Oversees the development of departmental policies and procedures and their periodic updating to best suit the needs of the organization and the clientele served

Requirements

Our Ideal Candidate Qualifications:

• 10+ years of progressive experience in workforce development or related fields. Preferred experience in nonprofits, social services, managing grants, and human development
• Proven ability to network, understand business sectors, and identify gaps. Strong strategic planning skills and the ability to adjust to a dynamic organizational environment
• Bachelor’s degree required (Master’s Degree preferred) with majors include business or public administration, workforce development, economics, or a closely related field
• Strong knowledge and understanding of economic development principles and employment industries
• Passion for innovation, making community connections and fostering innovative systems change
• Excellent leadership and management skills
• Proven track record in program development, implementation, and evaluation including developing data benchmarks, dashboards and tracking performance
• Must have excellent oral and written communication skills with a demonstrated ability to convey ideas concisely, interpret and report data, use relevant software and communicate effectively with stakeholders
• Experience in developing corporate partnerships, including developing presentations and collateral materials that speak to prospective partners’ needs
• Must be highly motivated, a self-starter, and possess a demonstrated passion for empowering individuals and strengthening communities.

Work Location & Environment:

This is an in-person role located at Louisville Urban League offices located at 1535 West Broadway, Louisville, KY 40203.

This full-time role follows a standard Monday–Friday schedule, with occasional evenings and weekends required to support programs and agency-related activities. The position is primarily based in a comfortable, indoor office setting, with significant time spent working on a computer using Google Workspace, Zoom, and other digital tools.

Travel Requirements:

The role includes regular local and statewide travel to engage with strategic partners and potential clients. Candidates must have a valid driver’s license, insurance, and reliable transportation. Mileage for work-related travel is reimbursable, excluding daily commuting costs.

Benefits

LUL offers a competitive salary range of $85,000- $92,000, commensurate with work experience. LUL also offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. We’re committed to fostering a supportive work environment.

To Apply:

Please use this application to apply for the role. The deadline to apply is Feb, 28, 2025.. We will review applications on a rolling basis shortly after they are received. The selection process includes 4 virtual interviews of 30-60 minutes each. Learn more about this role by viewing our Frequently Asked Questions document and apply here.