Director of External Partnerships

Job Title
Director of External Partnerships


Requisition Number
RE50095


Working Title

Department Name
3DH00:Auxiliary Services Administration


Work Location
Lexington, KY


Grade Level
50


Salary Range
$81,640-138,798/year


Type of Position
Staff


Position Time Status
Full-Time


Required Education

MA



Click here for more information about equivalencies:
https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies


Required Related Experience

6 yrs



Required License/Registration/Certification

None



Physical Requirements

Lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 25 lbs, sitting/standing for long periods of time, repetitive motion



Shift

40 hours Monday-Friday May be required to work weekends and other nontraditional work hours. Travel will be required.



Job Summary

The Director of External Partnerships at the University of Kentucky will play a critical role in advancing the institution’s global engagement strategy by cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with various key business partners, education agencies, other universities, and various government entities. This position is responsible for fostering long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships that enhance the University’s global reach and reputation. Serving as a primary liaison to industry leaders, the Director works to align workforce needs with academic initiatives—creating valuable opportunities for students, alumni, and faculty through strategic collaboration and shared outcomes.



The director is a team-oriented leader who collaborates with various internal and external stakeholders to create opportunities for partnership in areas such as Student Success, Philanthropy, Economic Development, UK Healthcare, etc. The director will play a critical role in enhancing UK and the Smart Campus’ visibility, reputation, and overall impact through various companies and connections.

Goals for Director of External Partnerships

• Develop and strengthen reciprocal relationships with national and global partners that engage the academic, cultural, social, and intellectual strengths as well as the mission at the University of Kentucky.
• Cultivate partnerships to increase knowledge, understanding and interest in the University of Kentucky, its student body, and the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders around opportunities and areas to improve experiences and interactions between UK and internal/external constituents.

IEBC (Internal Employee Being Considered).



Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Established track record of successfully managing and growing strategic partnerships

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Trusted leadership and team management skills

Proven initiative and resourcefulness

Excellent project management and organizational skills

Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external partners

Demonstrated ability to think strategically and develop innovative solutions

Knowledge of higher education trends, challenges, and opportunities

Willingness to travel to meet with partners or attend conferences and events



Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
Yes


Preferred Education/Experience

Deadline to Apply
05/01/2025


Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.


As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strongly encourage veterans, individuals with disabilities, women, and all minorities to consider our employment opportunities.


Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.