Director Of External Engagement In Product Design

Director of External Engagement in Product Design

The Director of External Engagement in Product Design serves as the primary liaison between the School of Product Design and external partners-fostering relationships that lead to internships, co-ops, sponsored projects for undergraduate and graduate studios, faculty research projects, and full-time employment opportunities. The position also plays a critical role in developing academic and executive workshops, pre-college summer camps, and sponsorship opportunities to enhance industry collaboration and student learning. The Director provides strategic leadership and operational execution for all aspects of career development, internship placement, and employer engagement for students in the School of Product Design.

Job Responsibilities:

• Industry Liaison and Partnership Development (34%) Serve as the primary point of contact between the School and design-related community partners and industries (consumer products, medical devices, packaging, furniture, retail, etc.). Work collaboratively with the Director of Alumni Relations and the College Development team to cultivate and maintain long-term relationships with companies, alumni, and industry organizations. Work collaboratively with the Office of Student Services to coordinate pre-college design camps and summer workshops that engage prospective students and promote pathways into design education.
• Internship Coordination (33%) Work collaboratively with the College of Design Career and Internship Services to develop, manage, and expand internship and co-op opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Provide one-on-one product design-specific guidance and support for students related to internships/co-ops/careers. Maintain and update a database of internship opportunities and employers. Collaborate with faculty to align internships with program learning objectives and outcomes.
• Business Development and Sponsorship (33%) Identify and secure sponsorships for product design studios, capstone projects, and innovation labs. Collaborate with the College's development team to build sustainable industry partnerships. Develop and manage partnership agreements in collaboration with faculty. Connect product design faculty with opportunities for short-term executive education programs, innovation sprints, and professional workshops for corporate partners.

Qualifications Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree required. Experience working in or alongside design-driven fields (e.g., product design, industrial design, user experience, engineering, or related industries) that demonstrates the ability to communicate between academic and industry contexts. 3+ years of post-graduation experience in career services, corporate recruiting, professional/org development, corporate recruiting or in professional strategic communication roles. Experience in building and sustaining professional/industry/organizational partnership. Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills. Proficient with digital tools for communication and data management.

Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree. Ability to teach Industrial Design/Product Design Portfolio Prep class or Internship course. Background in product design, industrial design, or related fields.

Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $56,000 - $72,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience Time Appointment: 75% Appointment Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.