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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants. POSITION SPECIFICSPenn State has partnered with ZRG Aspen Leadership Group in the search for an Associate Vice President, Principal and Presidential Advancement. You may view the position prospectus or submit an application via this link: https://opportunities.aspenleadershipgroup.com/opportunities/8310.
Penn State is currently seeking an Associate Vice President, Principal and Presidential Advancement to lead and grow strategic fundraising efforts for individual giving at five million dollars and above, as well as for Campaign and University Initiatives and Foundation Relations programs. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR), you can play an integral role in Penn State's future and contribute to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country.
Reporting to the Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations and working closely with President Bendapudi and university leadership, as well as other partners and central development offices, the AVP will be responsible for developing and implementing annual operating plans for each area of their management portfolio, reflecting specific goals, objectives and action plans. The AVP will also be responsible for the highest level of donor coordination and strategy for complex relationships. This position will set standards for annual achievements, assure a common set of expectations university-wide, and mentor staff. In addition, this position will manage a portfolio of principal gift-level prospects for the President's office and for the University at large. The AVP will work closely with DDAR's Vice President and the President of Penn State, often staffing the President in transformational gift conversations, and will help to develop the President's calendar of travel and events.
In addition, this Associate Vice President will:
- Articulate Penn State's needs, ambitions, and values through excellent informal and formal communications;
- Coach and mentor fundraising professionals of varying experience levels;
- Develop and execute a strategic plan for each area of responsibility to achieve relevant divisional and university goals and strategic objectives;
- Assist the VP by serving as the University's expert on best practices for campaign design and oversight, comparative analysis, goal setting, volunteer management and campaign reporting;
- Serve as counsel on complex gift strategies, work in collaboration with the university-wide constituency-based programs, and serve as one of the chief gift strategists working with senior academic and development leadership to assure best practices are being implemented across every college, campus, and unit;
- Set standards for annual achievements, assure a common set of expectations university-wide, and mentor staff;
- Manage a portfolio of top prospects and plan and execute solicitation strategies leading to principal-level transformational gifts;
- Serve as an ambassador for the University and its priorities and values.
This position typically requires a bachelor's degree (master's degree preferred) or higher and 10 years or more of combined major gifts and related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
The successful candidate will also have:
- Track record of success in closing principal and major gifts at an institution of higher education;
- The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues;
- Quantifiable experience partnering with academic leadership to develop and successfully execute on a comprehensive, data-driven fundraising strategy;
- Demonstrable knowledge of the principles, ethics and practices of successful fundraising including campaign leadership and/or management experience;
- Ability to develop robust metrics programs that incentivize collaboration and performance in partnership with other fundraising leaders;
- Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills with a particular sensitivity to sophisticated, high-net worth audiences;
- Impeccable writing, presentation skills, and ability to use various technologies including software and digital tools used to communicate and engage with external constituencies;
- Coaching skills that are consistent with bringing out the best in staff and instilling pride and ownership in a team effort;
- Ability to plan and execute travel for donor visits that may include overnight trips;
- A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team;
- A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored;
- Knowledge of the Penn State community and awareness of our land grant mission.
Operation of a motor vehicle as part of the position's duties and a valid driver's license are required. Successful completion of a motor vehicle records check, in addition to standard background checks, is also required.
DDAR is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
This position is based at the University Park campus, located in State College, Pennsylvania. State College is ranked among the lowest-stress and safest small cities in the country, with excellent public schools, beautiful parks and other natural assets, and a broad range of cultural and athletic events and venues: statecollegepa.us and statecollege.com
