Healthcare Partnership Director

Franklin University, a private, independent, accredited, nonprofit university located in Columbus, Ohio, invites applications for the position of Healthcare Partnership Director.

Founded in 1902, Franklin University has built its reputation on removing barriers to higher education for ambitious adults balancing educational goals with work, family, and other commitments. Accredited and nonprofit, Franklin is recognized as an innovator in online education and serves students through applied undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs designed to support career advancement and lifelong learning. More than 50,000 Franklin alumni live and work around the world, making meaningful contributions to their professions and communities.

Position Summary

The Healthcare Partnership Director leads national partnership expansion across allied healthcare and nursing programs to drive student enrollment, workforce development, and high-quality clinical placement opportunities. This role is responsible for building strategic relationships with healthcare organizations, managing a structured partnership and sales process, and ensuring alignment with regulatory and accreditation standards. The Director serves as a key external representative while collaborating cross-functionally to support program growth, clinical capacity, and student success.

Key Responsibilities

Partnership Development & Market ExpansionIdentify, engage, and secure strategic partnerships with healthcare organizations, businesses, and professional associations nationwide. Drive enrollment growth, expand brand presence, and execute a structured sales process including prospecting, pipeline management, negotiation, and closing. Maintain accurate partnership data and forecasting through CRM systems.

Clinical Placement Strategy & Workforce DevelopmentDevelop and execute a national clinical placement strategy to ensure sufficient, high-quality clinical sites and preceptor networks. Align partnerships with workforce shortages by building sustainable talent pipelines and leveraging workforce development initiatives, grant funding, and public resources.

Regulatory, Accreditation & State Authorization ComplianceEnsure all partnerships and clinical placements meet applicable regulatory, accreditation, and state authorization requirements. Maintain expertise in clinical education standards and support institutional readiness for audits, approvals, and compliance expectations.

Program & Market ExpertiseDevelop deep knowledge of allied healthcare and nursing programs (degree and certificate offerings) to effectively position solutions in a competitive market. Monitor industry trends, workforce needs, and competitive dynamics to inform strategy.

Industry Engagement & Thought LeadershipRepresent the university at national conferences, associations, and industry events. Build relationships, generate opportunities, and enhance market presence through speaking, sponsorship, and thought leadership initiatives.

Cross-Functional CollaborationPartner with internal stakeholders—including admissions, marketing, academic leadership, clinical coordination teams, and account managers—to align partnership strategies with enrollment goals, program delivery, and student outcomes.

Team Leadership & Performance ManagementLead, mentor, and support account managers responsible for regional partnership development. Ensure consistent execution of national strategy, sales processes, and performance tracking.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in healthcare, nursing, business, or related field preferred
• 5+ years of experience in healthcare partnerships, business development, or related field
• 3+ years of experience in healthcare or nursing education, clinical program administration, or student clinical experience
• Demonstrated success in partnership development, sales, or enrollment growth in Healthcare industries
• Experience managing structured sales processes and partnership pipelines
• Proficiency with CRM systems (e.g., Hubspot) for tracking and reporting
• Strong knowledge of clinical placement requirements, accreditation standards, and regulatory frameworks
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship management skills
• Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced, national environment
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% nationally

Preferred Skills

• Strategic thinker with strong execution capabilities
• Data-driven decision-making and performance tracking
• Experience in multi-market or national roles
• Strong organizational and project management skills

Additional Information

This position follows an on-site hybrid work schedule and requires flexibility to meet departmental and university needs. Evening and weekend events may be required, and travel is expected.

Franklin offers a competitive benefits package, incentive program, and free parking. In addition, Franklin provides free undergraduate tuition for employees and eligible family members, graduate tuition assistance for full-time employees and eligible family members, and a discount on doctoral tuition for employees.

Franklin University is committed to creating a respectful and inclusive educational and workplace environment. Franklin does not discriminate on the basis of age, religion, race, ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, immigration status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or familial status, disability, or veteran or military status.