The College Foundation of the University of Virginia invites applications for the position of Vice President for External Communications and Engagement, a strategic and creative leader who will shape and elevate the Foundation’s approach to engaging its broad and diverse community of alumni and supporters. Reporting to the President & CEO and working in close partnership with development colleagues, this individual will play a key role in strengthening the donor journey across all stages of…
engagement, ensuring clear, consistent and compelling communication that deepens relationships and advances the Foundation’s fundraising goals.
The Vice President will provide vision and direction for a comprehensive and unified engagement strategy that integrates events, communications, stewardship, and data driven insights to ensure a consistent voice and deliver meaningful, personalized experiences that strengthen constituent relationships. This leader will inspire and support a high performing team, foster collaboration across the advancement enterprise, and ensure that every interaction reflects the values and aspirations of the College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences at the University of Virginia while deepening affinity and long-term philanthropic support.
The ideal candidate will bring a bachelor’s degree, with an advanced degree preferred, along with at least ten years of progressively responsible experience in advancement, development, or nonprofit leadership. This individual will have a demonstrated record of leading, developing, and motivating high performing teams. They will also bring a deep understanding of stakeholder communications and messaging, donor psychology, donor relations, volunteer management, relationship management, and the motivations that drive philanthropy.
Experience in higher education advancement and donor relations is strongly preferred, along with familiarity with comprehensive campaigns and an understanding of planned giving and estate planning concepts. The ideal candidate will also bring an openness to innovation, including experience with emerging technologies and digital engagement platforms.
The successful candidate will be an exceptional communicator, both written and verbal, capable of crafting compelling proposals, presentations, and donor communications. They will be an exceptional relationship builder, with the ability to build trust and the interpersonal skills to engage and inspire a wide range of stakeholders.
The anticipated salary range for the position is $185,000–$220,000, with eligibility to participate in the College Foundation Bonus Plan. The position also includes generous and comprehensive medical benefits, with no-cost and low-cost options, as well as an employer retirement contribution of up to 11%.
Expressions of interest and nominations are being accepted and will continue until the position is filled. Application materials should include a letter of interest, and a resume/CV.
Applications can be submitted using the following Talent Profile Link: https://talent-profile.dsgco.com/search/v2/23109
Matt Marsallo, Managing Director
Lisa Solinsky, Senior Associate
UVAFoundationiVPECE@dsgco.com
The College Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.
In 2017, 2020, and 2021, The Nonprofit Times recognized The College Foundation as one of the top 50 nonprofit employers in the country.