Director of Business Development & Corporate Relations, Darden Career Center

University of Virginia - Charlottesville, VA

Full-time - Director

Charlottesville, VA

Educational Services

About the position

The Director of Business Development & Corporate Relations at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business is a leadership role within the Career Center's Employer Engagement & Recruiting team. This position is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive business development strategy that enhances employer relations and supports the career success of graduate business students. The Director will engage with a diverse range of corporate partners, cultivate strategic relationships, and oversee initiatives that align with the evolving needs of the job market. This role is pivotal in ensuring that Darden's programs meet industry demands and that students have access to robust career opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a comprehensive business development and corporate relations strategy that supports top outcomes for the Residential MBA and enhances employer relations for other MBA programs.
• Set strategy by sector in collaboration with Sector Leaders and other initiatives to align student interests with employer engagement.
• Establish and grow a strategic corporate pipeline across major US and international regions, focusing on student interests.
• Create and execute a strategy to grow financial partnerships with companies, fostering stronger corporate partnerships and student engagement.
• Partner with hiring representatives to connect their hiring objectives with Darden's student talent and career development offerings.
• Leverage relationship management skills to establish strong connections with stakeholders.
• Ensure corporate sponsorship recognition and delivery of sponsor benefits.
• Develop and implement standardized procedures for business development and corporate relationships.
• Own corporate sponsorship initiatives and collaborate with student organizations on sponsorship opportunities.
• Produce a multi-channel marketing strategy to reach an employer audience, promoting Darden and its students.

Requirements

• Master's degree and four years of relevant experience required.
• Background in marketing, sales, business development, account management, or talent acquisition preferred.
• Demonstrated track record of success in creating and implementing strategies that drive business development and recruiting operations.
• Highly developed communication skills with experience presenting to various stakeholder groups.
• Ability to collaborate across teams and make data-driven decisions.

Nice-to-haves

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Zoom/FaceTime, and LinkedIn.
• Experience with CRM systems, 12twenty, GradLeaders, Symplicity, VMock, or other university career systems preferred.

Benefits

• Flexible work location with a preferred in-office arrangement.
• Opportunity to engage with Fortune 500 companies and startups.
• Access to a network of alumni and industry professionals.