Irene Spanos

Senior Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at Oakland University
Detroit Metropolitan Area
Summary
Irene Spanos is a skilled professional with a wealth of experience in corporate and foundation relations, particularly in fostering partnerships between top companies and Oakland University for talent recruitment, internship development, joint research, and professional development.
She holds a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing from Wayne State University. Irene has also pursued further education in sales strategy, lean production/manufacturing, lean office practices, customer service management, and corporate business negotiating.
In her current role as Senior Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at Oakland, Irene has demonstrated her expertise in building and maintaining relationships with businesses to create mutually beneficial opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Her impressive professional background includes past positions such as Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at Oakland University, membership in various boards and advisory councils like McLaren Oakland, Automation Alley, Michigan Defense Center, Global Ties Detroit, and many more.
Irene Spanos has also contributed to economic development initiatives and community affairs in roles such as Director of Economic Development & Community Affairs at Oakland County, Michigan Government, Tech248 Leader at Oakland County, and Business Development Manager - Economic Development at the same institution.
She has a versatile skill set that includes experience in marketing, advertising, public relations, and leadership roles in organizations like Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), OU INC, Mechatronics Certificate Program at Oakland Community College, and International Economic Development Council.
With her diverse educational background, extensive experience in corporate and foundation relations, and a broad range of affiliations in the economic development and business sectors, Irene Spanos stands out as a dedicated professional committed to driving growth and building strategic partnerships.
Her contributions to various boards and councils indicate her passion for community engagement, economic prosperity, and fostering relationships that benefit both organizations and the communities they serve.