Engagement Manager

About the Role

We are seeking a strategic, relationship-driven, and entrepreneurial Employer Engagement Manager to lead efforts to engage the local business community in building a stronger early childhood education (ECE) system in the St. Louis region. This role will play a critical part in aligning private-sector investment with community-wide goals to expand access to high-quality ECE for children and families and support local ECE providers.

The Employer Engagement Manager will serve as the primary liaison to employers and business leaders, translating the economic value of ECE into meaningful partnerships and support. This leader will develop and execute strategies to attract new employer investment, both financial and in-kind, and position the work of the Gateway Early Childhood Alliance as essential to long-term economic and workforce development in the region.

As part of a collaborative, cross-functional team, the Manager will ensure that employer and business engagement is well-integrated with broader development, advocacy, and implementation efforts. This is a unique opportunity to activate business leadership in service of community impact and drive sustainable change in early childhood systems at the local level.

The Employer Engagement Manager will be responsible for leading a team of employers and contractors to execute on:

• Build and manage relationships with local employers and business leaders to generate funding, sponsor ships, and in-kind support.
• Develop and execute an employer engagement strategy that aligns with organizational goals around access, workforce, and quality.
• Elevate awareness of the economic and workforce benefits of investing in early childhood.
• Design and promote opportunities for employers to invest in local ECE solutions, including direct contributions, workplace policies, and community initiatives.
• Collaborate with internal teams (including communications, development, and provider partnerships) to align messaging and engagement strategies.
• Represent the Alliance at business round tables, community events, and advocacy efforts to ensure ECE remains a visible and shared priority.
• Track and report on partnership progress, deliverables, and impact in coordination with broader organizational reporting and fundraising goals.

Required Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, nonprofit management, public policy, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in employer partnerships, fundraising, business development, or external affairs.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with business leaders and secure financial or strategic support.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to craft compelling messages for employer audiences.
• Commitment to community-driven change and a belief in the importance of early childhood education.

Preferred Experience

• Advanced degree (e.g., M.Ed., MPA, MBA, MSW, or a related field).
• Experience working in or alongside early childhood, education, or workforce development systems.
• Familiarity with corporate social responsibility (CSR), ESG strategies, or shared value partnerships.
• Knowledge of the local business landscape and key employers in the region.
• Ability to translate policy and program information into compelling narratives for non-technical audiences.

Start Date:

February 2026

Salary: $60,000 – $70,000 annually

Benefits:
Health, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off; professional development support

Travel:
Must have access to reliable transportation and the ability to travel locally

Reporting To:
Executive Director, Chief of Staff

Final date to receive applications:
February 13, 2026

Interested candidates should submit their resume, cover letter, and references to (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).