Chief Advancement & External Relations Officer

Association of Fundraising Professionals; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 145,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Northwestern – St. Paul seeks a Chief Institutional Advancement Officer to lead the institution's fundraising and external relations at the executive level.

This role drives strategies across philanthropy, engagement, government relations, and communications to sustain mission impact. The position requires at least ten years in advancement leadership, a track record of major gifts, and ability to collaborate with boards and senior leaders within a faith‑based higher education

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible leadership experience in advancement, fundraising, communications, nonprofit and/or large ministry leadership, or a related field.
• Demonstrated success securing major gifts and leading comprehensive fundraising campaigns.
• Minimum of five (5) years of successful progressive supervisory and leadership experience.
• Experience working with governing boards, executive leaders, and key stakeholders.
• Maintain a growing, personal relationship with Jesus Christ, reflect His character in all interactions, and faithfully uphold and embrace Northwestern's mission.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for Northwestern's advancement enterprise, developing and executing integrated fundraising and engagement strategies.
• Lead transformational philanthropic partnerships and cultivate a culture of philanthropy among donors, alumni, churches, foundations, and other constituents.
• Direct comprehensive, capital, and special campaign strategies to grow philanthropic support and donor engagement.
• Ensure excellence in advancement operations, stewardship, and performance management through systems and accountability.

Skills

Relationship Building

Written & Verbal Communication

Stakeholder Engagement

Donor Stewardship

Strategic Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

University of Northwestern – St. Paul seeks a Chief Institutional Advancement Officer to lead the institution's fundraising and external relations at the executive level.

This role drives strategies across philanthropy, engagement, government relations, and communications to sustain mission impact. The position requires at least ten years in advancement leadership, a track record of major gifts, and ability to collaborate with boards and senior leaders within a faith‑based higher education