GradConnection, a global leader in providing international job resources and technology solutions to universities, announces it has hired Wesley Thorne as its first Head of Business Development and Client Relations for North America. As the company continues to expand its global presence, particularly beyond Asia, Europe and the Middle East, it saw a need to hire someone who understands how to navigate the evolving higher education and career services landscape. Thorne, who most recently served as the Director of the UCLA Career Center, brings 18 years of career services experience that encompasses establishing new models for career education and student engagement, creating employer partnerships, alumni relations, fundraising and technology. He has held a variety of leadership positions in career services at both public and private institutions and remains active with a number of associations, including the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Thorne, who started the role in June, oversees the company's overall university partnership strategy for North America. He also serves as an internal consultant to company leaders, providing high-level guidance and insight on product development, communication strategy and branding.
In 2018, as GradConnection celebrates its 10 year anniversary, it wants to continue its global success by bringing on seasoned leaders who can contribute to the success of several areas of the company. "By bringing Wesley on board we're benefiting and capitalizing on his wealth of career services knowledge, extensive network and practical business acumen", said Dan Purchas - Director. In a short period of time he has helped us become a better global technology and solutions provider to our university partners. We're thrilled he's part of our close-knit team."
Mr. Thorne has already traveled to China and Hong Kong to support the company's signature Career Summit programs. He will be representing GradConnection at the upcoming National Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services conference in Brisbane, Australia in November and will spend time with company leaders in Sydney. "I am thrilled to be working for a truly international company. I whole-heartedly believe in our mission of providing universities resources and technology solutions that support access to top employment for international students," said Thorne. "Taking a step outside of higher education to work with a growing technology company allows me to pursue work that aligns my passion for global education, building partnerships and expanding student access to opportunities. I am excited about taking on this leadership role to expand GradConnection's partnerships with US and Canadian universities."