We are pleased to announce the appointment of Brianna Robinson as Opportunity Junction’s next president and CEO following an extensive six-month search.
Brianna, vice president of programs since 2012, has held various leadership roles within OJ during her 16-year tenure. She will take over as president and CEO on May 1.
Brianna's exceptional experience and leadership skills make her the ideal candidate for the role.
"Brianna has a deep understanding of our programs, participants, funding sources and partnerships," OJ Board Chair Matt Tillman said. "She is focused on providing the very best for our participants, ensuring we fulfill our mission each day."
Brianna’s impressive track record includes expanding the Healthcare Career Pathway partnership and completing the Neighborhood Builders leadership program as Opportunity Junction's Emerging Leader. She was the architect of the Imagine Gala and the project manager of our office buildout in 2009. She designed our first alumni programs and then led our participation in a Research and Development project – partnering with JobTrain, Jewish Vocational Service, and Tipping Point Community – to develop the remote coaching pilot known as the Career Advancement Project.
A graduate of both Furman University, South Carolina, and Temple University, Pennsylvania, Brianna holds a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s in educational psychology and educational administration. Prior to joining Opportunity Junction, she taught high school English.
Brianna will succeed Alissa Friedman, who will retire after serving as president and CEO since 2003. Friedman played a vital role in establishing Opportunity Junction as a widely recognized workforce development nonprofit, with participants' earned income exceeding $100 million since 2000.
Opportunity Junction, based in Antioch, provides free business and health care career training, job placement assistance, counseling and alumni support. Our mission is to help motivated Contra Costa County job seekers develop the skills and confidence to launch careers that lead to financial security.
“We are thrilled to welcome Brianna Robinson as Opportunity Junction's new president and CEO,” said Alissa, “and look forward to her continued leadership in ‘Breaking Barriers and Building Careers.’”
