Director of Professional Development Programs

The University of Southern Maine (USM) is seeking an experienced Director of Professional Development Programs. The ideal candidate will possess demonstrated success in driving sales and business development, a strong background in training, development and design, exemplary communication and marketing skills, and a commitment to excellence and innovation. 

The Director of Professional Development Programs will be responsible for developing and delivering a portfolio of high-impact, revenue-generating courses and experiences through the University of Southern Maine’s Professional Development Programs (PDP). Through direct outreach and relationship building with internal and external stakeholders, the Director strengthens the University’s regional presence through workforce development. The Director works closely with industry leaders and community partners to manage and strengthen partnerships to design and implement programs that meet market demand, generate revenue, and contribute to the University’s financial and strategic goals.

The Professional Development Programs Office offers a wide spectrum of programs, including micro-credentials, CEUs, professional national or state certificates, USM certificates, general training, custom training, and workshops. In addition, the PDP Office provides strategic consultation, offering a variety of course modalities that meet the development needs of its customer base. 

Candidates should have a successful history in business development, program planning and administration and coordination, with excellent networking and relationship management skills. Successful candidates must be able to conceptualize ideas and make sound decisions. 

This is a full-time in person position located on our Portland Campus with an annual salary of up to $85,000.

The University of Southern Maine offers highly competitive benefits for full-time and eligible part-time employees that includes (but is not limited to):

• 13 paid holidays plus earned vacation time and sick time.
• Health, dental and vision insurance.
• Low-cost short-term disability insurance and employer-paid long-term disability insurance.
• Employer-paid basic life insurance and supplemental life insurance.
• A tuition waiver program for employees and their spouse or dependent child(ren).
• A 403(b)-retirement plan with employer contribution.
• Free access to the METRO system, including the Husky Line with service between our Portland and Gorham campuses.

To learn more, please review the Benefits Information Summary.  

The University of Southern Maine is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond.  USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society. To learn more about USM, visit About Our University. 

The University of Southern Maine fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment that respects and appreciates varied perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement.  We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence and the enrichment of our community.

We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness. 

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree with five years’ experience or a Master’s degree with seven years of experience in sales/business develo