What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Partnerships position at UPWARD CREDIT UNION?
Company Description
UPWARD Credit Union, established in 1956, is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution dedicated to serving healthcare professionals, their families, and local communities. Rooted in trust, compassion, and a strong commitment to service, UPWARD combines advanced banking tools with a community-focused approach. Our mission has always been to uplift lives both financially and personally, helping members achieve their financial goals with care and partnership. Located in the heart of San Carlos, CA, we strive to empower our community to move "Upward" toward financial success.
Role Description
Upward Credit Union is looking for a dynamic, relationship-driven leader to serve as our Director of Community Partnerships—a highly visible role that blends business development with meaningful community impact.
This is not a remote position. The individual in this role must be present in the community—building relationships, attending events, and serving as a trusted ambassador for our mission.
What You’ll Do
- Drive membership and loan growth through strategic partnerships
- Expand and manage Select Employee Groups (SEGs)
- Build relationships with local businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders
- Lead financial inclusion initiatives and deliver financial education
- Represent Upward Credit Union at community events, chambers, and civic meetings
- Develop outreach strategies that connect us with undeserved and marginalized populations
What We’re Looking For
- Fluency in both Spanish and English (required) — including speaking, writing, and translating
- A passion for community engagement and financial empowerment
- Experience in business development, partnerships, or community outreach
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Ability to work in-person and actively engage across the communities we serve
Why This Role Matters
This position is central to expanding access to affordable financial services and strengthening belonging in the communities we serve. You’ll play a key role in connecting people to opportunity while helping drive the growth of our credit union.
- 📍 Location: On-site (community-facing role)
Knowledge and Skills
EXPERIENCE
Two to five years of similar or related experience, including time spent in preparatory positions. This position requires professional fluency in both English and Spanish, including the ability to read, write, speak, and translate information as needed to serve members and perform essential job responsibilities.
EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES
A two-year college degree or completion of a specialized course of study at a business or trade school.
INTERPERSONAL SKILLS
A significant level of trust and diplomacy is required to be an effective subject matter expert in the position. In-depth dialogues, conversations and explanations with customers, direct and indirect reports and outside vendors of a sensitive and/or highly confidential nature is a normal part of the day-to-day experience. Communications can involve motivating, influencing, educating and/or advising others on matters of significance. This position requires professional fluency in both English and Spanish, including the ability to read, write, speak, and translate information as needed to serve members and perform essential job responsibilities.