Vice President, University Advancement and President/CEO, ETSU Foundation

CASE; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

East Tennessee State University seeks a dynamic Vice President for University Advancement and CEO of the ETSU Foundation. This executive role focuses on leading fundraising efforts and fostering relationships with stakeholders to cultivate a culture of philanthropy. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in development, excellent communication skills, and the ability to implement effective strategic plans.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree strongly preferred.
• At least seven years of progressively responsible development experience.
• Proven track record as a senior level fundraiser.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive advancement strategies and plans.
• Advise the President and Leadership Team on advancement matters.
• Manage all aspects of fundraising, including annual giving and capital campaigns.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Fundraising

Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree

Job description

Vice President, University Advancement and President/CEO, ETSU Foundation

Position Description

East Tennessee State University invites applications for the next Vice President for University Advancement and President/CEO of the ETSU Foundation. The next Vice President will be a dynamic and collaborative leader, committed to furthering the mission of ETSU and leading the university and community in fostering a culture of philanthropy.

Job Summary

The Vice President for University Advancement is the chief advancement officer for the University and collaborates with the President, Executive Staff, and academic leaders on all matters pertaining to the management and operation of university development, alumni relations, as well as community and donor relations. The Vice President also serves as the President/CEO of the ETSU Foundation, a nonprofit which raises funds to benefit the University and partners with leadership to promote the goals of ETSU. The Vice President for University Advancement has responsibility for the following administrative units and functions:

• ETSU Foundation
• ETSU Alumni Association
• Advancement Services
• Development
• Donor Relations and Special Events
• Athletics Development
• Advancement Communications
• Martin Center for the Arts

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

As chief advancement officer for East Tennessee State University, it is expected that the Vice President demonstrates:

• A proven track record of success in fundraising, development, and/or alumni relations;
• Strong leadership, management, and interpersonal skills;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• An ability to develop and implement effective strategies;
• An ability to build and maintain strong relations with donors, alumni, and other stakeholders;
• Knowledge of fundraising principles and best practices;
• An understanding of financial statements and budgeting; and
• An ability to create and implement strategic plans.

Job Duties

The Vice President provides leadership and strategy related to the overall vision of advancement at East Tennessee State University and the ETSU Foundation. In addition, the Vice President will:

• Develop and implement comprehensive advancement strategies and plans;
• Set fundraising goals/targets and track progress;
• Advise the President and Leadership Team on advancement matters;
• Serve as a member of the executive team, participating in strategic planning and decision-making;
• Develop and foster both internal and external partnerships, promoting advancement efforts throughout the university community;
• Build new and further strengthen existing relationships with donors, alumni, community partners, and other key stakeholders who are committed to the continued success and growth of ETSU;
• Oversee and manage all aspects of fundraising, including annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, and capital campaigns;
• Identify, cultivate, and solicit major donors and prospects;
• Implement a robust donor appreciation program;
• Develop and implement stewardship programs to maintain donor relations;
• Develop and implement alumni engagement strategies;
• Foster a strong sense of community and loyalty among alumni;
• Develop and implement effective communication and marketing strategies related to advancement to promote the University’s mission, vision, and values;
• Manage the Advancement website, social media, and other communication channels;
• Hire, train, and supervise advancement staff;
• Create a positive and productive work environment, and ensure that staff are equipped with skills and resources they need to succeed;
• Work closely with the Foundation Executive Committee and subcommittees to raise, invest, and budget in the most beneficial manner private contributions made to the Foundation in support of the University;
• Ensure a close link and positive partnership between the Foundation and University leadership;
• Remain competent and current through self-directed professional reading, developing professional contacts with colleagues, attending professional development courses, and attending training and/or courses as appropriate.

The Vice President must ensure compliance regarding state, federal, and Board of Trustees guidelines and may be asked to perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.; Master’s degree strongly preferred;
• At least seven years of progressively responsible and broad-based development experience;
• Experience in an academic setting or large, complex organization preferred;
• Proven track record as a senior level fundraiser required;
• Excellent communication and relational skills required.

Supervision

The Vice President reports directly to the University President and maintains broad discretionary authority to implement general objectives and devise specific means for their achievement. The Vice President supervises the directors of the units within the Office of University Advancement.

Application Process

The Vice President of University Advancement and President and CEO of the ETSU Foundation Search Committee invites letters of nomination, applications (letter of interest, complete resume/CV, and references), or expressions of interest to be submitted to the search firm assisting the university. Confidential review of materials will begin immediately and continue until the appointment is made. It is preferred, however, that all nominations and applications be submitted before Friday, July 11, 2025. For more information, please contact Parker Executive Search:

Laurie Wilder, President

Porsha Williams, Vice President

Jacob Anderson, Senior Principal

Jack McGrew, Associate

Parker Executive Search

Five Concourse Parkway, Suite 2875 Atlanta, GA 30328

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