Description
Position Summary
The Workforce Initiatives Manager provides strategic leadership for the Chamber & workforce development initiatives through the planning, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of JOCO WORKS and related career readiness programs. Working collaboratively with employers, school systems, higher education, workforce partners, government, and community organizations, this position serves as the
primary convener for career exploration, career readiness, and work-based learning initiatives that strengthen Johnston County's talent pipeline.
Program Leadership
Provide overall leadership for the JOCO WORKS initiative, including WOW, WOW Ambassadors, PRO, NOW, and future workforce initiatives.
Develop annual work plans, timelines, project schedules, and implementation strategies.
Lead onsite operations for workforce events and ensure exceptional participant experiences.
Identify opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement across all workforce programs.
Employer & Community Partnerships
Develop and maintain relationships with employers, educators, workforce organizations, and community partners.
Recruit employers for sponsorships, exhibitions, internships, classroom engagement, and volunteer opportunities.
Facilitate JOCO WORKS Council meetings and support committee planning, agendas, and follow-up.
Represent JOCO WORKS throughout the region through presentations and stakeholder engagement.
Communications & Outreach
Collaborate with the Operations & Communications Manager to execute marketing and communications strategies.
Develop program messaging, presentations, and informational materials.
Maintain workforce-related website content and digital resources. Promote career awareness and work-based learning opportunities through a variety of communication channels.
Data, Evaluation & Grant Management
Track program performance metrics and measurable outcomes.
Design surveys and data collection tools.
Prepare quarterly and annual impact reports, grant narratives, and return-on-investment summaries.
Assist with grant administration, reporting requirements, and program budgets.
Chamber Leadership & Collaboration
Support Chamber-wide events and strategic initiatives.
Maintain regular communication with the President & CEO and Chamber staff regarding program progress and emerging opportunities.
Serve as an ambassador for the Chamber's mission and workforce initiatives.
Core Competencies
Program & Project Management
Relationship Building
Public Speaking & Facilitation
Strategic Thinking
Communication
Collaboration
Adaptability
Data Analysis Reporting
Customer Service
Required Qualifications
Three to five years of experience managing complex programs, workforce initiatives, education partnerships, or large-scale events.
Demonstrated ability to build collaborative partnerships across business, education, government, and community organizations.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including presentation and grant writing experience.
Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiplepriorities.
Experience using Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, CRM platforms, and online collaboration tools.
Ability to work a flexible schedule to support Chamber programs and events.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in workforce development, education, economic development, nonprofit management, or a related field.
Experience with grant-funded initiatives and outcome measurement.
Experience facilitating committees, advisory councils, or stakeholder groups.
Experience with GrowthZone/ChamberMaster or similar CRM platforms.
Career Growth
This position is intended to provide leadership for one of the Chamber's core strategic priorities. As workforce initiatives expand, the role may evolve into a director-level position with broader strategic and organizational leadership responsibilities.