Assistant Director for Student Professional Development

Job Description

Assistant Director for Student Professional Development

Virginia Wesleyan University invites applications for an Assistant Director for Student Professional Development dedicated to helping students grow as confident, capable professionals. This role strengthens the connection between academic learning and career readiness through innovative programming, individualized guidance, and strong partnerships across campus and the community.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and deliver professional development programs, workshops, and class presentations (resumes, interviewing, networking, career exploration).
Oversee the Professional Development Academy and support related courses.
Provide one-on-one career counseling, resume reviews, mock interviews, and mentoring.
Coordinate networking events linking students with alumni, employers, and community partners.
Manage the First Check Program and other readiness initiatives.
Supervise and mentor Career & Professional Development Interns and Ambassadors.
Lead marketing and communications efforts, including newsletters, social media, and promotional materials.
Track participation and outcomes; support assessment needs.
Collaborate with academic departments and student life to enhance professional development opportunities.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field.
Experience supporting college students through advising, mentoring, or programming.
Strong communication, presentation, and organizational skills.
Ability to build relationships across diverse groups.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and social media platforms.
Ability to manage multiple projects and work independently and collaboratively.
Appreciation for the value of a liberal arts education.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in a related field.
Knowledge of career development theory and best practices.
Experience with career services platforms, event planning, and supervising student staff.
Graphic design or marketing experience.
Understanding of employment trends and graduate school pathways.
Teaching experience in higher education.

Competencies

Student-centered mindset, inclusive excellence, creativity, adaptability, strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, and cultural competency.

Working Conditions

Standard office environment with some evening/weekend events; regular interaction with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and employers; occasional travel for conferences and employer visits.

Permanent Grant-Funded Position

To apply please submit resume, cover letter and 3 letters of recommendation

About Virginia Wesleyan University

Virginia Wesleyan University (vwu.edu) is Coastal Virginia’s premier university of the liberal arts and sciences. Situated on a 300-acre park-like campus in Virginia Beach, VWU annually enrolls more than 5,000 learners in all programs in all locations, including nearly 1,700 students in undergraduate, graduate and online programs. Students thrive in average class sizes of 12, and nearly 90 percent of new graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within one year of graduation. Through its Environmental Guiding Principles, the University incorporates a commitment to sustainability in every aspect of campus life. VWU is an inclusive community dedicated to scholarship and service grounded in the liberal arts and sciences, inspiring students to build meaningful lives through engagement in Coastal Virginia’s dynamic metropolitan region, the nation and the world.

Location

Virginia Wesleyan has often been defined by its desirable and unique location in Coastal Virginia. Located in Virginia Beach, the University is just minutes from the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay on a beautiful 300-acre park-like campus. The area is home to a host of business, governmental, and cultural institutions, as well as rich historical and natural resources. Nestled in the heart of one of Virginia’s largest metropolitan areas, Virginia Wesleyan is physically insulated from the bustle of the city traffic, and yet the vast resources of its surrounding urban area are easily accessible. Our region is proud of its vibrant city life, sandy beaches, and rich history. Learn more at visitvirginiabeach.com/explore.

Statement of Non-Discrimination
Virginia Wesleyan University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants are considered on the basis of skills, experience, and qualifications without regard to race, religion, color, creed, gender, national and ethnic origin, age, marital status, covered veteran status, sexual orientation, the presence of non-job-related medical disability, or any other legally protected status.