Director of Strategic Engagement (Hybrid)

Job Description

Job Description

We’re looking for …

We’re seeking a strategic relationship-builder and passionate advocate for dental assisting. The Director of Strategic Engagement will lead initiatives to build, strengthen, and expand partnerships across dental education, accreditation, and professional organizations. In this role, you’ll shape national conversations around certification, represent our organization at key events, and collaborate cross-functionally to advance our mission. If you’re a connector with a deep understanding of the dental assisting landscape and a track record of driving impact through engagement and advocacy, we’d love to meet you.

We are …

We are the Dental Assisting National Board and the DALE Foundation, a small, friendly group that is driven by our mission. Our organizations provide certifications, certificates, and online education for dental assistants, so they can be well positioned to support dental teams and deliver great dental care. We live our values of Service , Respect , Integrity , Inclusion , and Teamwork .

DEI Statement

We support the development and advancement of a diverse dental workforce by removing barriers in our policies, programs, and products. We are committed to engaging a variety of perspectives in our workplace and governance to further foster an equitable and inclusive environment for current and aspiring dental assistants.

Values

Service - actively supporting current and prospective dental assistants through equitable and inclusive engagement.

Respect - acknowledgment and consideration of the inherent worth and dignity of all individuals.

Integrity - adherence to moral and ethical principles, demonstrating honesty, sincerity, and consistency in actions and decisions.

Inclusion - ensuring all individuals, regardless of differences or backgrounds, are fully engaged and valued members of a community or organization.

Teamwork - individuals working together toward a common goal, leveraging each other's strengths.

We are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where every individual is valued and celebrated. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome all applicants and ensure fair treatment regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We especially encourage individuals from historically underrepresented groups to apply.

We offer …

We offer great work / life balance with a 37.5-hour work week and comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, 100% company-paid dental / vision, flexible benefits reimbursement, generous PTO, 401(k) matching, and professional development support. Located in Chicago's River North neighborhood, our team mostly works on a hybrid schedule.

The role is …

The Director of Strategic Engagement is responsible for developing and executing strategic initiatives that build, manage, and deepen relationships with key partners in dental education, professional organizations, and accrediting bodies. This leadership role plays a pivotal part in advancing the recognition, value, and adoption of dental assistant certification, ultimately driving growth in the number of Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) nationwide. This role follows a hybrid work arrangement with the majority of time worked remotely with regular in-office requirements in our downtown Chicago office. Periodic travel to events and organizational meetings is expected.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities :

A. Strategic Engagement

• Develop and implement an engagement strategy aligned with the organization's mission to elevate the importance of dental assisting certification.

B. Relationship Management

C. Outreach and Partnerships

D. Advocacy and Representation

E. Program Development

F. Data & Impact Reporting

G. Cross-Functional Collaboration

Skills and Attributes :

Education & Qualifications :

Physical Demands :

Required to sit for extended periods of time; may need to walk or stand in the course of work as well as light (20-30 lbs.) to medium (30-40 lbs.) levels of lifting of supplies and / or equipment.

Work Environment :

Work performed in an office environment, either onsite or offsite; periodic travel to be expected.