Academic Partnerships & Engagement Manager

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) is the global leader and recognized authority for the internal audit profession. We are dedicated to advancing the profession worldwide through education, advocacy, certifications, and professional resources. Guided by our values of People First, Integrity, Collaboration, Accountability, and Innovation, we provide a collaborative, purpose-driven workplace where employees can grow professionally while making a global impact.

About the role

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) is seeking a relationship-driven Manager, Academic Partnerships & Engagement to help expand and strengthen the IIA's global Academic Alliance. In this role, you will cultivate strategic partnerships with universities, academic organizations, educators, and professional associations to advance internal audit education and inspire the next generation of internal audit professionals. Working closely with the Senior Manager, Academic & Student Initiatives, you will support the execution of strategic growth initiatives, present the value of the Academic Alliance to prospective university partners, and collaborate across the organization to increase educator engagement, student participation, and awareness of IIA programs, memberships, and certifications.

Work Arrangement

This is a hybrid position based in Lake Mary, Florida, combining in-office collaboration with remote work.

Responsibilities

• Build and manage strategic relationships with universities, educators, academic organizations, and professional partners to grow the IIA Academic Alliance.
• Support the development and execution of the Academic Alliance strategic plan, including growth, engagement, and partnership initiatives.
• Present to university leaders, faculty, and academic stakeholders to promote the value of the Academic Alliance and expand participation.
• Track program growth, engagement metrics, and key performance indicators (KPIs), providing insights and recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Coordinate content and planning for the annual Global Student Conference and other academic engagement initiatives.
• Represent the IIA and the Internal Audit Foundation at academic conferences, events, and meetings to increase awareness and generate new partnership opportunities.
• Partner with internal teams, including Marketing, Membership, Global Services, and Student Initiatives, to deliver a seamless experience for educators and students.
• Develop and maintain resources that support universities, IIA chapters, institutes, and academic partners.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Business, Higher Education, or a related field. Master's degree preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in higher education, association management, nonprofit organizations, partnership development, business development, marketing, customer engagement, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience building and managing relationships with diverse stakeholders, including educators, academic leaders, and external partners.
• Strong presentation and public speaking skills, including experience presenting to executive or academic audiences.
• Excellent project management, organizational, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence and build collaborative partnerships.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft 365, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while working independently in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working within a professional association, membership organization, nonprofit, or higher education institution.
• Experience supporting academic partnerships, university engagement, or educational program development.
• Knowledge of certification programs, professional development, or student engagement initiatives.
• Fluency in additional languages, particularly Spanish or French, is a plus.
• Experience working in a global or international environment.