Workforce Development & Inclusion Specialist

The Workforce Development and Inclusion Specialist serves as a strategic program lead responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating enterprise workforce development and belonging and inclusion initiatives. This role independently manages complex programs, builds cross-functional relationships, and uses data to drive decision-making and operational excellence. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, strong collaborator, and influential partner who leads initiatives that strengthen OU Health's workforce pipeline, support inclusive culture, and advance the organization's goal of remaining Oklahoma's Employer of Choice.

*** This position may also be filled at the Senior Level if Minimum Qualifications are met***

Essential Responsibilities:

Responsibilities listed in this section are core to the position. Inability to perform these responsibilities, with or without an accommodation, may result in disqualification from the position.

• Serve as the operational lead for key Workforce Development and Belonging & Inclusion programs, owning end-to-end program execution and continuous improvement.
• Support the Director in defining, operationalizing, and communicating the Workforce Development & Belonging and Inclusion strategy.
• Develop and implement strategic initiatives that strengthen workforce pathways and advance belonging and inclusion across the enterprise.
• Lead the daily operations and strategic execution of workforce development programs (Healthcare Career Explorers, MHA Fellows, Internships, etc.), ensuring high-quality participant experience and strong outcomes.
• Build and manage partnerships with community organizations, nonprofits, schools, and industry groups to strengthen engagement and expand access to careers in healthcare.
• Provide advanced governance support for OU Health Belonging Networks, including alignment to enterprise B&I strategy, impact measurement, and leadership guidance.
• Serve as a liaison between Belonging Network leaders and executive sponsors, supporting visibility, influence, and strategic alignment.
• Promote workforce development and inclusion programs through communications, presentations, and employee engagement strategies.
• Lead data collection, analysis, and insight development to measure program effectiveness, making data-driven recommendations for improvement.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization, scalability, and enhanced efficiency within workforce and inclusion programs.
• Prepare and deliver reports, presentations, and recommendations to senior leaders.
• Provide informal leadership, subject matter expertise, and guidance to Workforce Development & Inclusion Specialists, coordinators, or interns as appropriate.
• Manage complex, cross-functional projects and strategic initiatives with minimal supervision.
• Complete ad hoc and special projects based on organizational needs.

General Responsibilities:

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or a related field required.

Experience: At least 5 years of experience in Human Resources, Talent Development, Workforce Development, Education, Community Engagement or a related field required.

License(s)/Certification(s)/Registration(s) Required:

SHRM-SCP or SPHR certification at the time of hire or attainment within 12 months of hire.

Senior Level Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or a related field required.

Experience: At least 5 years of experience in Human Resources, Talent Development, Workforce Development, Education, Community Engagement or a related field required.

License(s)/Certification(s)/Registration(s) Required:

SHRM-SCP or SPHR certification at the time of hire or attainment within 12 months of hire.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• In-depth understanding of workforce development and inclusion principles, with the ability to apply them in an organizational setting.
• Ability to envision and communicate the strategic vision for the department.
• High cultural competency with the ability to navigate and appreciate different perspectives and backgrounds.
• Maintain high emotional intelligence to support employees in sensitive situations.
• Strong executive presence that inspires and drive organizational change.
• Remains current on industry trends, best practices, and emergent issues related to Workforce Development and Inclusion.
• Effective project management skills to plan and execute.
• Proficient in data analysis and interpretation to assess the impact of workforce development and inclusion initiatives.
• Collaborative leadership style, with the ability to build strong relationships and work effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Exhibits follow-through and meets deadlines effectively and efficiently.
• Know how to advocate and address employee-related challenges (bias, discrimination, etc.) with solid conflict resolution skills.
• Knows how to think proactively and use critical thinking skills to develop innovative and creative solutions to overcome organizational barriers.
• Ability to develop quick turn-around, practical recommendations based on data and research to inform strategic decisions.
• Excellent and practical oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex information in an approachable manner.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).