Strategic Advancement Projects Lead

Norfolk State University; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Norfolk State University is seeking an experienced Project Manager for its Advancement division. The role focuses on applying standardized project management methods to plan, execute, and assess initiatives, with emphasis on budgeting, data reporting, and stakeholder engagement.

The position requires a Bachelor's degree and 5–7 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination. The role is on-site in Virginia, supporting fundraising operations, events, and donor engagement strategies,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in higher education administration, business, communications, nonprofit management, or related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of relevant professional experience in project management, advancement, or a related area, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

• Apply standardized project management methodologies to plan, execute, and assess Advancement initiatives.
• Develop comprehensive project plans, including timelines, tasklists, and resource allocation strategies.
• Lead and facilitate project team meetings, ensuring clear communication and accountability.
• Monitor project progress and proactively address risks, scope changes, and resource needs.
• Support the development and execution of strategic Advancement initiatives, including campaigns, events, and donor engagement strategies.
• Assist in policy formation, program development, and implementation aligned with institutional and Advancement goals.
• Conduct project reviews and share best practices to improve operational effectiveness across the division.
• Develop and manage detailed project budgets and schedules based on scope, staffing, and resource requirements.
• Ensure efficient use of financial and human resources to meet project objectives.
• Develop and implement communication and change management plans for projects.
• Serve as a liaison between Advancement leadership, project teams, and campus partners.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to support fundraising and engagement goals.
• Oversee the collection, analysis, and reporting of project data to ensure accuracy and consistency.
• Prepare reports and presentations for senior leadership to support decision-making.
• Utilize data insights to enhance project outcomes and strategic initiatives.
• Ensure all projects adhere to university policies, as well as state and federal regulations.
• Provide guidance on industry trends, best practices, and compliance considerations within Advancement.

Skills

Project management

Planning

Facilitation

Risk management

Strategic planning

Budgeting

Stakeholder engagement

Data reporting

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in higher education administration, business, communications, nonprofit management, or related field

5-7 years of relevant professional experience (or equivalent) in project management/advancement

Tools

PMP certification

Job description

Norfolk State University is seeking an experienced Project Manager for its Advancement division. The role focuses on applying standardized project management methods to plan, execute, and assess initiatives, with emphasis on budgeting, data reporting, and stakeholder engagement.

The position requires a Bachelor's degree and 5–7 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination. The role is on-site in Virginia, supporting fundraising operations, events, and donor engagement strategies,