Associate Vice President, Alumni and Community Experiences

Department ADV Advancement Associate Vice President, Alumni and Community Experiences Job Information Reporting directly to Vice President Armin Afsahi, the Associate Vice President will join the Advancement executive leadership team to provide strategic direction and oversight for key teams that drive community building and engagement. The role demands a collaborative, change‑oriented leader who strengthens the university’s ability to deliver meaningful experiences, develop talent across the organization, and keep its global community deeply connected to the institution’s mission and future. As a strategic partner to senior academic and administrative leaders, volunteer boards, and university stakeholders, the AVP will craft and execute strategies that inspire alumni, donors, and friends to deepen their commitment to UChicago. The role is central to executing the University’s ambitious Chicago Minds campaign launching in 2026, positioning this leader as a key architect in achieving historic fundraising and engagement goals. Responsibilities Serve as the institution’s chief architect of constituent experiences, designing cohesive pathways that deepen connection and reflect UChicago’s values. Develop and implement a comprehensive vision for alumni and community engagement that aligns with university priorities and sets measurable objectives. Lead thoughtful and ambitious organizational change, assessing capabilities and guiding staff toward growth while preserving effective practices. Oversee and integrate initiatives across alumni relations, stewardship, annual giving, communications, and event programming. Partner with leadership to execute the campaign, activating volunteer leaders and creating experiences that drive engagement and philanthropic support. Build a comprehensive donor relations operating strategy to strengthen stewardship and impact communication. Design an innovative, centralized direct marketing and annual giving program to expand the institutional pipeline and increase donor acquisition and retention. Invest in talent development, empowering staff to own programs and grow professionally. Seek professional development opportunities to enhance performance, broaden networks, and diversify the advancement profession. Perform other related work as needed. Competencies Vision and enthusiasm for the role, with a clear point of view and dedication to institutional aspirations. Strategic alignment across systems, people, culture, and tactics. Continuous improvement and data‑informed decision‑making. Team development and coaching, fostering growth and accountability. Innovative and accountable leadership, embracing experimentation and disciplined execution. Partnership and collaboration across university divisions and external partners. Operational excellence and fiscal management of departmental budgets. Executive leadership presence, demonstrating strategic perspective and institutional awareness. Education Bachelor’s degree required. Advanced degree preferred. Experience Minimum ten years of professional work experience in nonprofit management, development, alumni relations, marketing, or a similar field. Record of success working with faculty, senior administrators, trustees, and key internal and external stakeholders. Minimum five years of successfully managing, coaching, and motivating staff. Minimum three years of experience developing and monitoring budgets. Superior analytical and prioritization skills. Strong leadership qualities, capable of delegating and executing. Flexibility to adapt in an emerging and changing environment. Technical Knowledge or Skills Knowledge of the university’s internal workings and aptitude for learning technology tools, including the donor relationship management system. Proficiency in Microsoft Windows, Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access. Working Conditions and Physical Requirements Hybrid work schedule with weekly in‑office presence. Standard office environment. Travel to campus and/or non‑campus locations for university business. Work evenings and weekends as needed. Position located in Hyde Park at 5235 South Harper Court. Compensation Monthly salary in the range of $275,000 to $325,000. Exempt status. Benefits Eligible for a comprehensive benefits program including health, retirement, and paid time off. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University’s Notice of Nondiscrimination. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of Chicago (UC)