Employment Opportunity: Workforce Development & Employer Partnerships Manager

Workforce Development & Employer Partnerships Manager
Reports To: Vice President, Development & Partnership Relations
Location: Canton, Ohio (In Person)
Employment Type: Full Time

Shape the Future Workforce of Stark County
The Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce is seeking a dynamic, relationship-driven professional to lead workforce development initiatives and build strategic partnerships with employers throughout Stark County.

As the Workforce Development & Employer Partnerships Manager, you will serve as a trusted resource to HR professionals, business leaders, educational institutions, workforce agencies, and community organizations. You’ll help employers address workforce challenges while connecting individuals to career pathways, training opportunities, internships, and meaningful employment.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys building relationships, creating innovative solutions, and making a lasting impact on the region’s workforce and economy.

Initially supported through the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s Good Jobs Challenge initiative, this role represents an important investment in the Chamber’s long-term workforce strategy and the continued growth of employer services throughout Stark County.

Primary Responsibilities

Build Employer & HR Partnerships

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with HR professionals, business leaders, and hiring managers throughout Stark County.
• Meet regularly with employers to understand workforce needs, hiring challenges, and talent priorities.
• Connect employers with workforce resources, grants, training programs, internship opportunities, and business services offered through the Chamber and regional partners.
• Serve as a trusted workforce resource and ambassador for the Chamber.

Strengthen the Regional Talent Pipeline

• Recruit, coach, and support individuals pursuing careers in advanced manufacturing and related industries.
• Assess participant interests, goals, and readiness for training and employment.
• Coordinate participant enrollment with education and training providers.
• Maintain ongoing communication with participants throughout training and into successful employment.
• Partner with employers to identify career opportunities and connect qualified candidates with open positions.

Lead Workforce Programs & Community Engagement

• Represent the Chamber within regional workforce initiatives, including the Good Jobs Challenge (APEX Initiative), ConxusNEO, OhioMeansJobs, educational institutions, and community organizations.
• Support Chamber workforce priorities, including internship initiatives, employer engagement programs, childcare solutions, and talent attraction efforts.
• Coordinate HR roundtables, workforce events, employer meetings, and educational programming.
• Identify emerging workforce trends and recommend new programs, partnerships, and strategies that strengthen Stark County’s workforce ecosystem.
• Support additional Chamber initiatives and special projects as assigned.

Measure Success

• Maintain accurate participant records and reporting within AGS Prime and other required systems.
• Ensure compliance with federal grant guidelines and reporting requirements.
• Track program outcomes and prepare reports demonstrating impact to Chamber leadership and funding partners.

Qualifications
We’re looking for someone who enjoys connecting people, building partnerships, and solving workforce challenges.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, human resources, communications, public administration, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Three or more years of experience in workforce development, employer engagement, business development, human resources, economic development, education, nonprofit leadership, or a related field.
• Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills with the ability to engage executives, HR professionals, educators, elected officials, and community partners.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• A collaborative, entrepreneurial mindset and the ability to identify opportunities for new partnerships and innovative workforce solutions.
• Experience using CRM systems, databases, or participant management software.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel throughout Stark County and Northeast Ohio.

Experience working with manufacturing, skilled trades, economic development, workforce initiatives, or grant-funded programs is preferred but not required.

Why Join the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce?
The Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce has served as a catalyst for economic growth and business success for more than 100 years. As part of our team, you’ll play a vital role in strengthening Stark County’s workforce, supporting local employers, and helping individuals access meaningful careers.

This position offers the opportunity to:

• Build relationships with influential business and community leaders throughout the region.
• Help shape workforce strategy and employer engagement initiatives.
• Develop innovative programs that strengthen Stark County’s talent pipeline.
• Make a measurable impact on businesses, job seekers, and the regional economy.
• Grow professionally while working with a collaborative, mission-driven team.

Compensation & Benefits
The Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

Position Funding
This position is currently supported through the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s Good Jobs Challenge (APEX Initiative), a multi-year workforce development investment designed to strengthen Northeast Ohio’s talent pipeline. The Chamber views this role as a strategic investment in its long-term workforce strategy and is committed to expanding employer partnerships and workforce initiatives that support the continued success and sustainability of this position.

Apply
Interested candidates should submit an application and cover letter with salary requirements no later than August 14. For questions about the position, please email Melinda Kapalko, Vice President Development & Partnership Relations.

Equal Employment Opportunity
The Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees are respected, supported, and empowered to succeed.