Vice President, Career Programming

Description To be considered for this position, candidates MUST reside in the Austin, Texas metropolitan area. This position is Hybrid/Remote in the Austin, TX metro area. POSITION SUMMARY The Vice President of Career Programming is a strategic leadership role responsible for designing, developing, and managing all aspects of API’s career programming initiatives, including internships, co-ops, research projects and career exploration programming. This position plays a critical role in aligning API’s career programming strategies with organizational goals, forming academic partnerships, and overseeing a range of student-related administrative functions and onboarding procedures. With full ownership of the Career Programming P&L and internship library, the Manager leads cross-functional collaboration, oversees special projects for the SVP, and manages both full-time and part-time staff. They act as a key liaison with academic institutions and internal departments to ensure an exceptional student experience from inquiry through enrollment and post-acceptance processes. In addition to operational oversight, the role oversees the process for prospective students and parents, guiding them through program selection, admissions, and pre-departure processes. This includes detailed knowledge of admissions requirements, visa processes, course registration, and housing logistics. The role demands a high level of administrative accuracy, particularly in maintaining records within Salesforce and ensuring all onboarding and orientation materials are up to date and effectively communicated. This individual demonstrates initiative, problem-solving ability, and a collaborative mindset, contributing to continuous improvements and organizational effectiveness. A strong commitment to customer service, clear communication, and professional development is essential. RESPONSIBILITIES Key Responsibilities: Designing, developing and leading the implementation of career programming strategies; Forming alliances and partnerships with key academic institutions; Working collaboratively with other department employees to ensure the program is in alignment with organizational needs; Develop and implement administrative and recordkeeping systems; Owns the P&L for Career Programming; Owns the internship library; Oversees a variety of special projects under the direction of the SVP; Responsible for developing and managing full time and part time employees; Performing other job-related responsibilities as assigned. API expects all staff to Be adaptable to change in the workplace and use change as an opportunity for innovation and creativity; Take ownership of problems, has ability to brainstorm different problem resolution paths, uses sound judgment in selecting solutions to problems, and demonstrates consistent follow through; Demonstrated self-initiation and an action bias orientation; Has job knowledge and skills to perform the fundamental job functions and is able and willing to assume greater responsibility over time regarding the scope of work; Has the ability to inspire and model collaborative teamwork; Demonstrates an understanding of customer service regarding accommodation, helpfulness, trust building, appropriate boundaries, and flexibility. What We’re Looking For. The Must-Haves Bachelor's degree from accredited college or university in Business or a related field; Previous participation in a work/co-op/intern/career exploration programming; Experience in account and/or relationship management; Demonstrated competency in the required key skills: Negotiation, influencing, facilitation and communication (both verbal and written); Advanced project management skill; Skilled in analytical thinking and time management. What you will be doing. Serve as the primary subject matter expert, promoting a portfolio of AP career programs; Oversee admissions (i.e., enrollment review) for a portfolio of programs, including managing incoming onboarding materials, handling host institution enrollment reviews, and notifying students of acceptance and enrollment; Liaise with the host institution and on-site resident coordinators/directors as required to secure student enrollment into the career programming opportunities; Liaise with the VP of Pedagogy and Curriculum for career programming course facilitation; Assist with visa processing (when applicable); Meet periodically with marketing and programming staff to cross functionally collaborate program updates and changes; Actively participate when attending Enrollment Management meetings; Review the accuracy of website information and the catalog for annual publication, on a seasonal and as-needed basis; Demonstrate experience with handling and problem solving difficult interactions with parents, students, or advisors and resolving problems/concerns/issues; Review the full student life-cycle and make both product and communication recommendations; Contribute to the success of the broader team/organization by driving positive change and contribute to the collective success by: Facilitate and guide new employees through the onboarding process; Disseminate relevant updates and facilitate discussions on pertinent topics in recurring team meetings; Present timely information and lead focused conversations on key areas like trends, process improvement, and skill development during team updates. Take ownership of identifying and implementing improvements; and Collaborate and provide assistance with teammates to manage during increased demand periods. Requirements KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for interacting with various stakeholders, including team members, senior management, and external partners. Leadership: We are looking for a strong leader who can inspire and motivate their team, guiding them towards achieving strategic objectives. Management: Exceptional ability to manage budgets, resources, and projects effectively, ensuring efficient and impactful program delivery. Team Building and Development: Demonstrated ability with recruiting, managing, and developing a team of professionals, including program managers and other staff. Program Development and Strategy: Must have a deep understanding of program design, implementation, and evaluation is crucial. Strategic Vision - must be able to successfully develop and execute strategic plans that align with the organization's mission and goals, driving innovation and growth in career programming initiatives. Relationship Management: Building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders, including employers, educational institutions, and community organizations. Risk Management: Must have experience with identifying potential risks associated with career programming initiatives and developing mitigation strategies. Data Analysis: The ability to analyze data and track the effectiveness of programs is important for making informed decisions and demonstrating impact. Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing needs and priorities in the career landscape is essential for staying relevant and effective. KEY EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS A bachelor's or master's degree in a related field such as media studies, communications, education, business, or a related field is required. Study abroad experience is preferred. 5-7 years’ experience in programming and/or working for a higher education partner (i.e. College or University or Internship program for an organization). Demonstrated experience managing full time, wage earning employees. Demonstrated ability to work effectively without direct supervision.