Workforce Services Executive Director

Located in Clemson, SC, Work Link seeks an experienced and dynamic Executive Director to provide strategic leadership on Board initiatives, build partnerships with diverse stakeholders to achieve shared goals, and oversee the budget, reporting, staff, and consultants to carry out the Board’s work and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The position provides high-quality policy and decision-making support to the leadership, committees, and members of a large, multi-constituency community board charged by federal law with advancing workforce strategies and investments.

(While this position directly supports the Work Link Workforce Development Board and its regional programs, the Appalachian Council of Governments (ACOG) serves as Work Link's fiscal agent and administrative entity. Therefore, ACOG is the formal hiring entity, meaning payroll, benefits, and legal employment status will be managed through ACOG.)

Strategic Leadership – Provides strategic leadership for the Board’s work by helping establish and implement its vision, mission, goals, and action plans. Continuously assesses strategies within the current operating environment and recommends adjustments as appropriate. Leads regional strategic planning and initiative development and participates in state and national policy development on behalf of the Board. Aligns funding strategies with Board priorities by identifying and securing grants and other external funding to support innovative workforce development initiatives.

Board Support – Ensures the Board and its committees receive the information, analysis, and logistical support needed to make informed decisions and operate effectively. Works with Board leadership to plan effective meetings, provide clear analysis and decision-making frameworks, maintain regular communication with Board members, and ensure meeting materials and other necessary information are provided in a timely manner. Coordinates meeting locations and other logistical needs.

Board Development – Works with Board leadership and local elected officials to assess Board strengths and needs and develop strategies for continued improvement. Leads Board member recruitment when vacancies occur and ensures new members receive effective orientation. Encourages active participation and engagement by all Board members.

Partnerships – Develops and strengthens strategic partnerships with a broad range of stakeholders to advance shared goals. Promotes diverse participation in Board initiatives and fosters collaboration among educational leaders, the business and industrial community, local elected officials, economic developers, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and other community partners.

Board Representation – Represents the Board with local agencies and organizations, boards, county councils, commissions, and other partners. Coordinates with human resource, education, workforce, and service organizations throughout the three-county region to promote cooperation and avoid duplication of efforts. Coordinates Board activities with state, federal, and local entities involved in employment and training. Delivers presentations, prepares articles, and communicates information on behalf of the organization.

Public Workforce System Development and Improvement – Advises the Board on priority investments and provides oversight of the performance and quality of services funded through the Board, including One-Stop Operators and youth service providers. Promotes integrated service delivery and continuous improvement and works with service providers and partners to develop or strengthen services as needed.

Business and…