Senior Strategy Officer, Danforth and University Initiatives - University Advancement

Washington University; Clayton (MO); On-site; USD 75,000 - 129,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Strategy Officer to lead fundraising initiatives that align with its mission. This pivotal role involves crafting innovative strategies to engage alumni, students, and community members, ensuring a culture of philanthropy thrives. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and a proven track record in fundraising, capable of navigating complex relationships while driving operational strategies. Join a dynamic team committed to excellence and make a significant impact in advancing the university's goals through effective fundraising campaigns and community engagement.

Benefits

Up to 22 days of vacation

Competitive health insurance packages

Free Metro transit U-Pass

Defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan

4 weeks of caregiver leave

Tuition coverage for employees and family

Qualifications

• 3+ years of relevant experience in fundraising or related roles.
• Strong leadership and strategic thinking skills required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies.
• Engage with stakeholders to foster relationships and collaboration.

Skills

Active Listening

Analytical Thinking

Business Development

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System

Data Analysis

Fundraising

Leadership

Project Leadership

Strategic Thinking

Written Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Job description

Senior Strategy Officer, Danforth and University Initiatives - University Advancement

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Remote type: On Campus/Onsite

Locations: Washington University (West Campus), Clayton, Missouri

Time type: Full time

Posted on: Posted Yesterday

Job requisition id: JR88305

Scheduled Hours

37.5

Position Summary

Washington University seeks an advancement professional for the position of Senior Strategy Officer. University Advancement strives to advance the mission of the school by creating a culture of philanthropy among alumni, students, faculty, and friends.

The Senior Strategy Officer will play a critical role in developing and implementing a comprehensive fundraising strategy that aligns with the mission and goals of many of WashU’s interdisciplinary programs including University Libraries, the Gephardt Institute for Civic and Community Engagement, and the Skandalaris Center. This position requires strong leadership and strategic thinking skills, along with the ability to form relationships and work collaboratively with stakeholders. The successful candidate will have a proven track record in fundraising and a deep understanding of both traditional and innovative fundraising practices.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

• Assist ED with Dean/ Unit Lead relationship management and unit liaison.
• Staff the dean/unit lead for meetings and or events (local and out of town).
• Work with board/ committee engagement strategy oversight.
• Implement annual operational plans (events calendar, communication calendar, etc.)
• Provide guidance and support to the fundraising team, ensuring they have the necessary resources and training to meet their targets.

Subject Matter Expert (SME) and priority development.

• Develop detailed knowledge of key school/ program priorities and the University priorities that align with them.
• Serve as SME for all opportunities in the school/program with accountability of fundraising progress toward fiscal year benchmarks.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in fundraising to ensure the organization remains competitive and innovative.

Fundraising Strategy and school or program portfolio management

• Ensure generalist colleagues have effective school and program-based strategies.
• Support unit-based training for gift officers.
• Assist with driving operational strategy.
• Create and oversee the implementation of fundraising campaigns, events, and initiatives to engage existing and potential donors.
• Monitor and analyze fundraising metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of strategies and make data-driven adjustments as needed.

• High-level volunteer and donor engagement and stewardship.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:

• Normal office environment.
• Typically sitting at a desk.
• Travel as required on campus and assist with both on-campus and off-campus events.
• Some evening and early morning hours may be required.

Physical Effort

• Typically sitting at desk or table.
• Repetitive wrist, hand or finger movement.

Equipment

• Office equipment.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree

Certifications: No specific certification is required for this position.

Work Experience: Relevant Experience (3 Years)

Skills: Not Applicable

Driver's License: A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This Job

• Value placed on organizational loyalty, commitment, pride, integrity, mutual respect, and collegial openness.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse constituencies within a complex organization.
• Excellent understanding of fundraising principles, techniques, and best practices.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to motivate and mentor a diverse team.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to analyze data, make informed decisions, and adapt strategies as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

Education: Master's degree

Certifications: No additional certification beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Work Experience: Business Development Manager, Sales Executive, Or A Related Role (2 Years)

Skills: Active Listening, Analytical Thinking, Business Development, Complex Systems, Confidentiality, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System, Data Analysis, Digital Platforms, Fundraising, High-Integrity, Informed Decision Making, Leadership, Motivating Teams, Oral Communications, Organizational Commitment, People Management, Project Administration, Project Leadership, Sales, Strategic Thinking, Team Mentoring, Written Communication

Grade

G14

Salary Range

$75,200.00 - $128,800.00 / Annually

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [e-mail] or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
• Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.
• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO/AA Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.

Candidate Question Spotlight

About Us

Washington University in St. Louis' collective success is significantly attributed to the passion and outstanding efforts of our community. Our staff, faculty and trainees are committed to excellence and dedicated to carrying out our missions of research, teaching and patient care.

WashU prides itself on being a place where people matter, and serious work is done. Our people work together in an inclusive community that celebrates diverse perspectives, collaboration and innovation. We are a community of individuals inspired to work together to develop big ideas and tackle challenging problems.

We value the well-being of our people. WashU strives to create a positive employee experience where staff, faculty and trainees thrive, both personally and professionally. Our employees find meaning, connection and vitality in their work and life with a healthy work-life balance and support to learn, grow and make an impact at WashU, the community and the world.