Summary: The Associate Vice President (AVP), ACS Foundation serves as an employee of the American College of Surgeons and provides strategic leadership for all philanthropic initiatives. This role oversees development strategy, fundraising programs, industry relations and Foundation operations, ensuring alignment with ACS priorities. The position mobilizes resources, engages stakeholders, and advances a culture of philanthropy to support the College's mission and long-term growth. This role also oversees all Scholarship and Fellowship programs and operations.
This exempt position will report to the Executive Director & CEO, American College of Surgeons. It is based in our Chicago office and is a hybrid role: 3 days per week in the office/2 days per week remote.
The anticipated salary range for this position is $190,000 - $225,000 (commensurate with related experience).
Key Responsibilities:Strategic Leadership & Governance
- Provide overall leadership and direction for the ACS Foundation and ACS philanthropic programs.
- Serve as primary liaison to the Foundation Board of Directors, ACS Regents, and College leadership.
- Develop and implement strategic and operational plans aligned with organizational priorities.
Fundraising & Development
- Lead all fundraising activities including annual, major, and planned giving programs.
- Drive achievement of fundraising goals through donor engagement and strategic initiatives.
- Expand philanthropic programs and increase donor participation and support.
Operations & Financial Management
- Oversee Foundation operations including employee leadership, budgeting, and program management.
- Ensure legal compliance, fiscal accountability, and effective resource allocation.
- Manage contracts, grants, and operational systems supporting development activities.
Stakeholder Engagement & External Relations
- Build and maintain relationships with donors, volunteers, and external partners.
- Promote awareness of philanthropy within ACS and across external constituencies.
- Represent the Foundation in public forums and professional communities.
- Expand and develop an Industry Relations Program.
Scholarship & Fellowship Management
- Increase philanthropic support.
- Develop and maintain an alumni network for awardees.
- Increase visibility of awards, recipients and outcomes.
- Streamline applicant and evaluation process.
Program Growth & Innovation
- Develop strategies to increase engagement of volunteers, leaders, and stakeholders in philanthropy.
- Identify opportunities to expand fundraising programs and explore new revenue streams.
- Lead initiatives that enhance the Foundation's impact and reach.
Required Education and/or Experience: - Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
- 10+ years of leadership experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, or related roles.
- Demonstrated success leading large-scale fundraising programs and organizational strategy.
- Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Experience working with boards, volunteers, and executive leadership.
- Ability to operate effectively in a complex, mission-driven organization.
- Commitment to philanthropy and advancing organizational impact.
- Fiscally responsible and strong budget acumen.
- Forward thinking adaptation of technology to advance strategic goals.
Comprehensive Benefits:We're committed to attracting and retaining top talent via valuable benefits!
- Vacation, personal, and sick hours including 13 paid holidays per year
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Medical-comprehensive coverage through BlueCross BlueShield
- Dental, Vision, and Prescription drug program
- 403(b) Matching Program
- Pension Plan
- Flexible Spending Medical/Dependent Care
- Employee Assistance Program
- Short Term/Long Term Disability
- Life Insurance
- Domestic Partner Coverage
