VP of Advancement & External Relations

Virginia's Community College System; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 111,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits (VRS)

Paid leave

State employee benefits

Job summary

Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) seeks a Vice President for Advancement and External Relations to lead fundraising, marketing, alumni engagement, and foundation relations. Reporting to the President, this executive drives philanthropy, community partnerships, and external resources to support student success and sustainability.

The role oversees the College Foundation, develops strategic advancement plans, and collaborates with local, state, and federal partners.

Qualifications

• Master's degree and leadership experience in advancement or fundraising.
• Demonstrated success securing philanthropic support and grants.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; ambassadorial skills.
• Experience supervising staff and managing budgets.
• Ability to use data analytics to guide strategy and outcomes.
• Capacity to lead change and collaborate across constituencies.
• Commitment to ethical leadership and student-centered decisions.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction for the College Foundation and philanthropy.
• Develop an advancement and external relations strategy aligned with priorities.
• Lead fundraising efforts including major gifts and donor stewardship.
• Oversee grant development, compliance, and reporting.
• Represent the College to community leaders, employers, and partners.
• Cultivate relationships with local, state, and federal officials.
• Oversee marketing, communications, branding, and digital engagement.
• Guide major events and external-facing activities for engagement.
• Use data and metrics to evaluate effectiveness and inform decisions.
• Advise the President and Cabinet on external affairs.
• Supervise staff and foster collaboration and accountability.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Leadership

Fundraising/philanthropy

Strategic communication

Data analysis/metrics

Relationship building

Education

Master's degree

Higher education leadership

Job description

Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) seeks a Vice President for Advancement and External Relations to lead fundraising, marketing, alumni engagement, and foundation relations. Reporting to the President, this executive drives philanthropy, community partnerships, and external resources to support student success and sustainability.

The role oversees the College Foundation, develops strategic advancement plans, and collaborates with local, state, and federal partners.