Director of University Relations
Description
At Thrive Pet Healthcare, we are committed to advancing veterinary medicine through medical excellence, innovative technology, and a connected community of teams and partners. As a leading organization in the veterinary industry, we are seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of University Relations to spearhead our efforts in cultivating talent and building strong partnerships with academic institutions.
Position Overview:
The Director of University Relations will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our organization by developing and executing strategies to attract top-tier talent from universities and veterinary schools. This senior-level position requires a forward-thinking leader with a deep understanding of the veterinary industry, excellent relationship-building skills, and a proven track record in recruitment and university relations.
This role will lead a team of university recruiting partners who will report directly to the Director, University Recruitment, ensuring that all initiatives and strategies are effectively implemented. The Director of University Recruiting will report to the VP of Talent Acquisition, collaborating closely to align recruitment efforts with broader organizational goals and ensuring a seamless integration of talent acquisition strategies within the company.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Planning: Develop and implement a comprehensive university recruitment strategy aligned with the organization’s goals and growth objectives.
- University Partnerships: Establish and maintain strong relationships with veterinary schools, universities, and other educational institutions to enhance our presence and brand.
- Talent Acquisition: Lead recruitment efforts for veterinary professionals, including externships, internship and residency programs, ensuring a pipeline of highly qualified candidates.
- Event Management: Organize and participate in career fairs, campus events, and networking opportunities to promote our organization and attract top talent.
- Program Development: Create and manage programs that foster engagement with students, including student ambassador meetings, mentorship programs, workshops, and informational sessions.
- Market Analysis: Stay abreast of competitors, industry trends and recruitment best practices to continually refine and improve our strategies.
- Collaboration: Work closely with internal stakeholders, including the recruiting team, and senior leadership, to address staffing needs and recruitment challenges.
- Reporting and Metrics: Monitor and report on recruitment metrics and the effectiveness of university recruiting initiatives, providing insights and recommendations for improvement.
Qualifications:
- At least 5 years of experience in healthcare recruiting, preferably in the veterinary industry.
- At least 3 years of experience leading the university recruitment function in the human or veterinary healthcare industries.
- Demonstrated experience leading a team of individual contributors.
- Demonstrated success in building and nurturing relationships with educational institutions and industry partners.
- Strong understanding of the educational pathways and career development for healthcare professionals.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
- Ability to think strategically and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in using recruitment tools and platforms, as well as data analysis for reporting and decision-making.
About Us:
Vet-founded and Austin-born, Thrive Pet Healthcare has expanded to over 380 partner hospitals nationwide, united by a mission to shape the future of pet well-being through medical excellence, innovative technology, and a connected community of teams and partners. We bridge general practice, urgent care, specialty, and emergency care, and our locally rooted, nationally connected hospitals benefit from Thrive's extensive resources while maintaining their unique identities. We believe that supporting our people is the key to helping pets thrive through every stage of life. Join us where #WeThriveTogether.
At Thrive Pet Healthcare, we celebrate and embrace the uniqueness and diversity of our team members, pet parents, and pets. We strive to create a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture where all team members belong and feel empowered.