Vice President for Development and Engagement

Southern Methodist University; United States; On-site; USD 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Methodist University is seeking a seasoned Vice President for Development and Engagement to shape philanthropy and constituent engagement across the university. This executive will lead a comprehensive development strategy and a team responsible for alumni, donors, corporations, and foundations.

The successful candidate will bring a track record of building high-performing fundraising organizations, strategic vision, strong collaboration, and the emotional intelligence required to lead

Job description

The client is seeking a seasoned, strategic, and relationship-driven leader to serve as Vice President for Development and Engagement. This executive role will help shape the future of philanthropy and constituent engagement at a leading private research institution. The position is responsible for advancing a comprehensive development and engagement enterprise, strengthening lifelong relationships with alumni, parents, friends, corporations, foundations, and other philanthropic partners, and inspiring a culture of philanthropy that supports the institution's most ambitious priorities.

As a key member of the senior advancement leadership team, the Vice President for Development and Engagement will contribute to institutional strategy and serve as a trusted advisor and partner to leadership, academic leaders, volunteers, and donors. The role encompasses leadership for a broad portfolio, including parent and donor engagement, leadership annual giving, corporate and foundation relations, gift planning, regional major gifts, and family philanthropy. The Vice President will oversee a team of development and engagement professionals and will develop integrated strategies to strengthen donor participation, elevate engagement, and generate transformational philanthropic support.

The successful candidate will be an experienced advancement leader with a proven record of building high-performing fundraising organizations and securing significant philanthropic support. Essential qualifications include experience overseeing multiple fundraising functions, leading senior advancement professionals, and the ability to engage effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strategic vision, strong execution skills, collaboration, intellectual curiosity, and the emotional intelligence required to lead effectively at the highest levels of a complex institution.