Vice President for University Advancement

the client seeks an experienced and aspirational advancement leader to serve as vice president for university advancement and executive director of the client foundation during a period of investment and institutional growth. Reporting as a key member of the president’s senior management team, the role functions as the chief development officer with responsibility for development activities, including individual giving, annual giving, planned giving, and corporate and foundation relations. The vice president also oversees campaign communications, alumni engagement, university events, and government relations, and will contribute to community outreach and engagement. leading a 41-member advancement team, including seven direct reports, the vice president will build on a clear vision and strategy to support the university’s fundraising aspirations. Priority responsibilities include identifying new sources of philanthropic support, increasing institutional visibility, engaging meaningfully with regional partners, and securing resources to sustain enrollment growth and academic innovation. The role will strengthen relationships across constituent communities and key industry partners, elevating the institution’s reputation and supporting a comprehensive campaign in its public phase. the vice president will advance best practices across the advancement enterprise by refining strategy, expanding the donor pipeline, strengthening institutional affinity, optimizing team performance, and introducing fresh ideas responsive to the evolving nature of philanthropy in higher education. the position includes advising senior leaders on sensitive external relations matters, crisis communications, and issues management, as well as using a collaborative, data-informed approach to craft outreach and fundraising strategies. the vice president guides and supports the foundation board, advising on decisions including those affecting the endowment, and is expected to be an exceptional storyteller with strong communication, listening, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to craft compelling cases for support and earn trust across internal and external constituencies. a bachelor’s degree is required, and an advanced degree is preferred.