Senior Director, Application Services

WM001 William & Mary; United States; On-site; USD 115,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

William & Mary seeks a Senior Director, Application Services to lead the Advancement Information Services team, guiding strategy, implementation, and support of fundraising systems and technologies.

You will collaborate with university leadership, front-line gift officers, and IT partners to ensure data integrity, training, and secure systems across CRM platforms such as Blackbaud CRM, Salesforce, and Microsoft Dynamics.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in IT, CS, or related field.
• 5–10 years of relevant higher education experience.
• Strong leadership and team management.
• Experience implementing fundraising information systems.
• Lead discovery of project deliverables and integrations.
• Excellent data privacy knowledge.
• Proficiency with CRM platforms (Blackbaud CRM, Salesforce, MS Dynamics).
• Outstanding communication and collaboration across stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with data security best practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Advancement Information Services team and develop a strategy for implementing and supporting systems to advance fundraising goals.
• Collaborate with University Advancement staff and IT/vendors to enhance and upgrade software.
• Oversee project management, planning, budgeting, and stakeholder communications.
• Design and deliver training programs for users of advancement information systems.
• Ensure data integrity, privacy, and compliance across systems.
• Direct performance management, staffing, vendor relations, and staff development.

Skills

Leadership

CRM systems

Data privacy

Communication

Project management

Analytical skills

Stakeholder collaboration

Higher education fundraising

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent in IT/CS/Business

Tools

Velocity

Scrum

API integration

Job description

Job Requisition: JR102052 Senior Director, Application Services (Open) Job Posting Title: Senior Director, Application Services Department: CC00266 WM001 | WMUA | Adv. Info Services Job Family: Staff - IT Project Management & Business Analysis Worker Sub-Type: Regular (benefited) Job Requisition Primary Location: Discovery 1 Primary Job Posting Location: Posting Location - William & Mary

University Advancement creates the conditions for opportunity – human, financial, & experiential – by garnering and stewarding the resources that advance William & Mary. Consistent with the University’s shared services agreement with the William & Mary Foundation, this position is assigned 25% effort to support Foundation Services, LLC, a subsidiary of the William & Mary Foundation. Reporting to the Executive Director for Advancement Information Services, the Senior Director for Application Services is a critical leader in the Office of University Advancement. The Senior Director plays a pivotal role in advancing the fundraising goals of William & Mary by leading a team of professionals responsible for strategic implementation, management, enhancement, and utilization of the information systems, tools, and technologies that support university advancement. This role encompasses application systems discovery, evaluation, implementation, configuration, and ongoing systems maintenance and enhancement. Supporting the development of required customizations and integrations, while also leading the development and delivery of comprehensive education and training for advancement information systems and technologies. The Application Services team is keenly focused on data integrity and the optimization of Advancement information systems and technologies to enable innovation and fuel the success of University Advancement. The Sr. Director collaborates regularly with University Advancement leadership, front-line gift officers, and all members of the University Advancement team, fostering innovation and a best-in-class advancement information services program that supports fundraising efforts across the university. The Sr. Director will be fluent in current industry standards, best practices, emerging technologies, and the development of effective strategies and operational plans, and will be an innovator who will foster a culture of continuous improvement and belonging that embraces all people and perspectives. The Advancement Information Services team is part of the Office of Advancement Services & Innovation, which also includes finance & administration, gift & records administration, talent engagement, and prospect management & research. Together, Advancement Services & Innovation is responsible for the strategic design, development, and implementation of operational and business support functions, policies & procedures, and technology infrastructure that support all University Advancement operations, enable innovation, and drive campaign readiness and success.

Salary: $115,000 to $125,000 commensurate with experience.

For full consideration, submit application materials by Monday, September 28, 2026.

Applications received after the review date will be considered if needed.

A resume and cover letter are required for this position.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, business administration, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and training.


• Significant relevant experience, preferably within a higher education (typically 5-10 years).


• Strong leadership and team management skills.


• Proven experience implementing, managing and supporting information systems and technologies utilized in fundraising and non-profit organizations.


• Assist in leading the discovery of project deliverables including configuration, customization, and integration.


• Analyze stakeholder needs and business processes.


• Identify and document requirements needed to guide changes in technology.


• Lead the development and delivery of comprehensive education and training for advancement information systems and technologies.


• Excellent understanding of data privacy laws and best practices in data security.


• Proficiency in CRM software, particularly those used in advancement (e.g., Blackbaud CRM, Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics).


• Highly analytical, technically proficient, and able to learn new tools and software quickly.


• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.


• Drive to solve problems efficiently, creatively, and independently.


• Experience evaluating, recommending, and implementing new technologies and systems to enhance the effectiveness of advancement operations.


• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex information in a clear and compelling manner.


• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders and work in a fast paced, dynamic environment.


• Proven leadership experience managing in a team setting, setting strategic goals, and driving results in prospect management & research.


• Experience evaluating complex issues, identifying appropriate solutions, and providing leadership in development and implementation of operating plans.


• Excellent planning skills and experience with the ability to identify, clarify and articulate project purpose, goals, and outcomes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Velocity and Scrum Methodology.


• Experience integrating prospect research data with advancement systems to enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of fundraising strategies.


• Experience leveraging integration tools, processes, and API’s to seamlessly integrate and connect boutique advancement and event management systems with Blackbaud CRM.


• Experience developing and implementing a comprehensive training program to ensure staff and volunteers are proficient in using Advancement information systems.


• Experience working with university technology teams and external vendors to integrate and upgrade software systems, ensuring seamless functionality and user-friendliness.


• Experience managing system configurations, upgrades, and troubleshooting to maintain optimal performance.


• Knowledge of specific measures for demonstrating ROI of information systems in an advancement setting.


• Intimate knowledge of Advancement operations and critical components of advancement information systems support and integration with campaign, fundraising, and volunteer engagement.


• Advanced degree (master’s degree (e.g., business, information studies, public administration, etc).

Job Duties

30% - Leadership and Strategy: Serve in a leadership role for the Advancement Information Services team. Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for the implementation and support of advancement information systems and technologies to support the University’s fundraising, engagement, and campaign goals. Lead and manage the application services team, providing guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Collaborate with senior leadership to align information services with the overall advancement strategy. Collaborate with campaign leadership to develop and implement data-driven strategies for campaign planning and execution, and the alignment of advancement information services to optimize the effectiveness of University Advancement operations.

30% - Business Systems Support: Collaborating with University Advancement staff to understand their needs and translate them into technical requirements for system enhancements or new implementations. Evaluate, recommend, and implement technologies and systems to enhance the effectiveness of fundraising, donor relations, alumni & volunteer engagement, and advancement operations. Work with university IT and external vendors to integrate and upgrade software systems, ensuring seamless functionality and user-friendliness. Manage system configurations, upgrades, and troubleshooting to maintain optimal performance. Integrate prospect research, constituent, and prospect data with gift officer, volunteer, and alumni engagement, and the broader ecosystem of advancement information systems.

10% - Project Management: Collaborate with Project Management in the oversight and management of multiple projects related to application services, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and within budget. Develop project plans, allocate resources, and monitor project progress. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals and deliver successful outcomes.

10% - Training and Support: Design and deliver comprehensive training programs to ensure staff and volunteers are proficient in using Advancement information systems. Provide ongoing technical support and troubleshooting assistance to users. Develop user guides, documentation, and other resources to support system users.

10% - Data Management and Integrity, Compliance and Risk Management: Oversee the maintenance and enhancement of the advancement systems, ensuring data accuracy, consistency, and security. Implement data management best practices and protocols, including data entry, cleaning, and reporting standards. Conduct regular audits to ensure data integrity and compliance with university and advancement policies and relevant regulations. Ensure compliance with data privacy laws, institutional policies, and industry standards. Develop and implement risk management strategies to protect the institution’s information assets. Stay abreast of advancements in data security and privacy regulations, adjusting policies as needed.

10% - Performance Management: Direct and manage the application services team including budget planning, resource selection, vendor management, and thoughtful development and supervision of staff. Work creatively to ensure appropriate staffing levels and workload management. Provide ongoing opportunities for all members of the team to engage in professional development to hone skills, network, and produce excellent work. Foster an environment of creativity and innovation to ensure a best-in-class program and cohesive high performing team. Provide staff with frequent, constructive feedback, including interim evaluations as appropriate. Complete evaluations and EWPs by established deadlines with proper documentation. Address and document performance issues as they occur. Review and communicate safety issues to ensure a safe and healthy workplace and a reduction in work-related absences.

Job Profile

JP0622 - IT Project Leader - Exempt - Salary - S15 Qualifications: Compensation Grade: S15 Recruiting Start Date: 2026-09-02 Position Restrictions: Continuing E&G funded position and not term-limited EEO is the Law. Applicants can learn more about William & Mary’s status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegal Background Check: William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check. Applicant Notice: By applying for this position, you consent to William & Mary's use, review, and retention of your application materials for recruitment and employment purposes. Materials may be shared with authorized individuals participating in the hiring process and will be managed in accordance with applicable laws and university policies. Probationary Period Notice: Individuals selected for full-time staff positions will be required to complete a twelve (12) month probationary period in accordance with university policy. Remote Work Disclaimer: Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility. William & Mary and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) are vibrant, innovative and engaged communities and we are delighted about your interest in a career with us. Please be aware Workday has weekly downtimes and will be unavailable Fridays starting at 9:00 p.m. through Saturdays at noon (ET) for scheduled maintenance. During this time, the portal will be closed and will not accept applications.

Benefits

• William & Mary offers a competitive range of benefits that support employee well‑being and professional growth, including access to on‑campus fitness facilities, university libraries, and other wellness resources.


• Educational assistance, professional development opportunities, and a robust holiday schedule are also available.

EEO Statement

EEO is the Law. Applicants can learn more about William & Mary's status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegal

Background Check:

William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

Applicant Notice:

By applying for this position, you consent to William & Mary's use, review, and retention of your application materials for recruitment and employment purposes. Materials may be shared with authorized individuals participating in the hiring process and will be managed in accordance with applicable laws and university policies.

Probationary Period Notice:

Individuals selected for full-time staff positions will be required to complete a twelve (12) month probationary period in accordance with university policy.

Remote Work Disclaimer:

Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.