Senior Director, Donor Engagement

Senior Director Of Donor Engagement

The Senior Director of Donor Engagement is a highly relational, executional focused role that ensures Vanderbilt University delivers fully on the intent, expectations, and outcomes associated with a select portfolio of transformative principal gifts. This role operates at the intersection of donor relations, project management, and internal coordination to provide a highly curated portfolio of donors with exceptional service, communications, engagement, and effective execution of donor's gift intentions.

This position serves as central point of coordination between the donors, development officers, and cross-university partners to ensure alignment, maximize experiential opportunities, and facilitate top-notch institutional execution of eight, and nine-figure gifts.

As a high-level donor relations professional, this role will manage a portfolio of 3-6 complex, high-value gifts and donors secured within the past 1-2 years to meet expectations and drive outcomes. With a strong emphasis on service, this position facilitates success across all aspects of gift fulfillmentcompliance, stewardship, reporting, and milestone deliveryexecuted with precision, transparency, and a high standard of care.

Hybrid role based in the Nashville, TN area in the office approximately 1 day per week, or more depending on business needs.

Bachelor's degree, or the equivalent, is required.

Eight years of relevant work experience, or the equivalent, is required. Prefer experience within higher education and principal gift donor relations. Excellent interpersonal skills. Willingness and ability to connect and engage with constituents. Confidentiality and discretion are a must. Must have professional attitude, and exhibit considerable tact, persuasion, and judgement in interactions with internal and external constituents. Strong computer skills including Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word. Affinity for mastering new computer programs, such as our CRM. Demonstrated ability to work successfully with all levels, including high-level executives. Ability to make independent decisions. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Excellent customer service skills. Excellent project management skills. Ability to handle crisis situations and perform well under pressure. Position requires flexibility to work nights and weekends when needed.