Job Description

The Business Services Manager is a strategic leader responsible for designing, implementing, and managing employer engagement strategies within the WIOA framework. This role goes beyond traditional job placement services to foster deep, systemic partnerships with businesses, industry groups, and economic development entities. The Manager will focus on aligning workforce services with regional labor market demands, promoting sector strategies, building alliances with industry leaders. The Manager will also drive the development and implementation of work-based learning solutions such as On-the-Job Training (OJT), Work Experience (WEX), Incumbent Worker Training (IWT), Apprenticeships, and customized training programs.

Job Description

Strategic Employer Engagement & Sector Partnerships

• Develop and lead sector-based strategies in priority industries, using labor market intelligence to identify high-demand sectors and emerging workforce needs.
• Cultivate and maintain high-level relationships with employers, industry associations, chambers of commerce, and economic development organizations to advance regional workforce goals.
• Serve as a liaison between the business community and WIOA-funded programs, ensuring employer needs shape service delivery and training investments.

Business Services Operations

• Oversee the delivery of core employer services including candidate referrals, job postings, recruitment/hiring events, and labor exchange functions.
• Manage a team of Business Solutions Consultants or similar staff, providing guidance, performance oversight, and professional development.
• Develop and implement performance metrics for employer engagement, work-based learning participation, and business satisfaction.

Work-Based Learning & Talent Development

• Coordinate employer-driven solutions including OJT, IWT, Apprenticeships, and customized training in partnership with training providers.
• Facilitate work-based learning and placement solutions for non-employer referred WIOA participants.
• Lead employer consultations to assess skill gaps, identify training needs, and create tailored workforce solutions.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with all WIOA and state policies including the maintenance of all relevant documentation and state system management needs.

Labor Market Analysis & Industry Intelligence

• Utilize labor market data, employer feedback, and economic forecasts to inform service strategies, funding priorities, and workforce development initiatives.
• Prepare industry profiles, reports, and recommendations for internal and external stakeholders.

Collaboration & Alignment

• Work closely with workforce boards, one-stop operators, training providers, and partner agencies to ensure seamless service coordination.
• Serve as the lead for the Integrated Business Services Team and represent local area priorities and interests with state/local elected officials.
• Participate in regional workforce planning efforts and the implementation of special projects or pilots focused on upskilling the workforce.
• Ensure equity and inclusion principles are embedded in employer engagement and training strategies.
• Embraces virtual tools and solutions to support ease of access, increased employer and job seeker engagement and career readiness education.

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Management, Public Administration, or a combination of relevant education and experience.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in business engagement, workforce development, or economic development, including leadership roles.
• Solid knowledge of WIOA regulations, labor market trends, and workforce development best practices.
• Proven experience designing and managing work-based learning initiatives and sector strategies.
• Strong relationship management, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Ability to analyze data and trends to drive strategic decisions.
• Experience working with diverse employers across sectors and firm sizes.
• Driver's license in good standing and automobile insurance.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in navigating complex stakeholder environments with public-private partners.
• Familiarity with workforce development tools such as Salesforce, state labor exchange systems or other CRMs; also seeking familiarity and experience with virtual systems and virtual reality tools.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and the development of a future-ready workforce.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Equus Workforce Solutions is a leading provider of workforce development services in North America. With a dedicated and passionate team, Equus puts the industry’s best practices to work by focusing on the development, design, and delivery of demand-driven workforce solutions.

When you join Equus, you can expect extensive learning opportunities and networking programs. But most of all you can expect to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.

At Equus we are strengthened by diversity. We are committed to providing a work environment in which everyone is included, treated fairly and with respect. Equus Workforce Solutions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, age, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, religion, national origin, veteran status, physical or mental disability, or reprisal or any other characteristic protected under state, federal, or local law.

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