Lead Retention Specialist

As part of the Advancing Community Connections and Empowering Student Success (ACCESS) Office, the Lead Retention Specialist develops, implements, and assesses data-driven strategies to support student persistence towards graduation at the Max M. Fisher College of Business. This role provides targeted outreach and manages referral intakes for students experiencing academic, financial, or personal barriers to degree completion and develops individualized interventions to help them succeed.

The Lead Retention Specialist partners cross functionally with Fisher’s undergraduate and graduate programs offices as well as university groups such as Student Financial Aid, Student Advocacy, and Academic Support Services to support student’s individual needs through coaching, enriched academic programs, and other topics related to student success.

This position, in collaboration with the Associate Dean for Special Projects, collects and analyzes data to support different intervention programs. Works closely with the First-Year Transition Specialist and the Lead Student Growth & Development Specialist to ensure continuity of support and has oversight of students identified as at-risk or in need of direct intervention. By developing these programs, monitoring progress and addressing obstacles early, the Lead Retention Specialist helps align college-level retention strategies with institutional student success goals

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 6 years’ experience working with and developing academic programs and/or managing and overseeing events. Strong interpersonal and written communication skills.

Demonstrated public speaking skills. Ability to work with faculty, staff, students, and external organizations. Ability to manage multiple assignments with varying priorities and competing deadlines. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects and stakeholders. Ability to maintain a professional demeanor and uphold confidentiality.

Desired Qualifications

Master’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience; Experience working in academic environment; Experience with computer productivity software, internet and university Student Information System (SIS), resources and curriculum; Knowledge of college student development; Knowledge of university procedures. Broad knowledge of financial aid and academic policies.