Workforce Development Manager

Job Title:

Workforce Development Manager

Department:
Workforce Development

Reports to:

Chief Program Officer

FLSA Status:
Exempt

Salary Range: $65,000.00 - $70,000.00

To apply:

https://inspirat

In an atmosphere of dignity and respect, Inspiration Corporation connects people and creates opportunity through access to social services, job training, housing, and food. Each year, Inspiration Corporation works with hundreds of resilient Chicagoans who face systemic disparities and inequities, such as homelessness, hunger, and social isolation.

In order to help individuals and families overcome these barriers, we provide dedicated support coupled with housing, job training, scholarships, meals and engagement services. Inspiration Corporation meets people where they are in life, helping them access the support they need and achieve their personal goals. Inspiration Corporation programs are voluntary, and all service needs and goals are participant‑driven. Our case management philosophy is strengths‑based and trauma‑informed.

Inspiration Corporation practices harm reduction and focuses on reducing or minimizing the harm associated with high‑risk behavior through motivational interviewing.

At Inspiration Corporation, employees embody our mission by demonstrating the following Core Values:

• Integrity – We cultivate trusting, collaborative relationships rooted in mutual respect and accountability.
• Growth – We encourage personal development, curiosity and being open to new possibilities.
• Equity – We recognize each person’s inherent rights and advocate for inclusive access to resources and opportunities.
• Resilience – We persevere and seek solutions that celebrate our strength in the face of adversity, while practicing and encouraging self‑care.
• Hospitality – We create uplifting, accepting, and nourishing connections with everyone who comes through our doors.

The Workforce Development Manager oversees recruitment, intake, food‑service, and career‑development training, case management, job placement, and job retention components of Inspiration Corporation’s workforce development programs to support the success of participants in meeting their employment and economic security goals. The programs currently include Food service Training and Employment and the Lori & Ron Jericho Memorial Education Fund. The manager supervises a team of 5‑6 staff at present (2 Case Managers, Lead Chef Instructor, Employment Specialist, Chef Trainer, and Kitchen Training Specialist).

The position serves on the Senior Leadership Team and reports to the Chief Program Officer.

• Demonstrate Inspiration Corporation’s Core Values.
• Exhibit professionalism and high standards in all aspects of performance.
• Ensure efficient and effective delivery of services with dignity and respect in accordance with the agency’s mission.
• Work with all departments to ensure that the needs of the agency’s participants are addressed.
• Attend department, cross‑department, and agency meetings; serve on agency Senior Leadership Team and Leadership Team; attend Board of Directors meetings; attend and present in Board committee meetings as requested.
• Manage the work of workforce development staff to ensure delivery of high‑quality services, including hiring, supervision, regular one‑on‑one check‑ins, staff development, and completion of required training and performance review.
• Oversee implementation of workforce development program activities: participant recruitment, intake, assessment, enrollment; training, job readiness skill development; technological literacy; job placement and retention services; wrap‑around service provision both internally and through external partners; support navigation of long‑term career pathways; employer engagement strategy and recruitment; participant graduation ceremonies and recognition events; peer support and graduate engagement.
• Provide leadership to ensure successful collaboration of workforce development and social enterprise activities, including restaurant and catering operations, training and support, transitional jobs employment, unsubsidized employment goals, and career advancement.
• E…