Job DescriptionAs the Senior Director of Development, Global Development (Senior Director), you will help build and support Vanderbilt University's relationship-building efforts with alumni and parent major gift prospects overseas, specifically focused on Asia and the Middle East, with the objective of increasing philanthropic support of the University. This position will work in a highly collaborative fashion with institutional leaders and other Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) team members, to identify and execute global philanthropy fundraising strategies for the global program. The role will also oversee the development and execution of a business plan and prospect strategies for their own portfolio.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:- Align the philanthropic passions of donors with the university's mission and aspirations.
- Help provide strategic direction and input to others on the DAR team regarding international gifts.
- This role is multi-faceted and requires adaptability. This position will work directly with major gift prospects. Other times, play a behind-the-scenes role in support of others.
- Responsible for creating, articulating, and securing support for a broad range of institutional priorities.
- Work diligently to understand, embrace, and develop DAR's unique messaging to proliferate the university's value proposition.
- Work cooperatively, collegially, professionally, and respectfully with DAR and university colleagues to develop and foster strong working relationships.
Secure major and principal gifts- The Senior Director serves as the key strategic partner to the Assistant Vice Chancellor of Development in building and executing the Global Development Program for Vanderbilt.
- Drive forward the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major gift prospects overseas.
- Outright gifts, pledges, and planned gifts are all part of the Senior Director's portfolio.
- Secure face-to-face meetings with donors and prospects for identification, cultivation, and solicitation, and plan business travel accordingly.
- Help develop an annual business plan identifying key prospects for solicitation in the coming fiscal year. Maintain and update this plan on a regular basis.
- Secure $1.5M+ in philanthropic gifts annually.
Increase the overall fundraising success for global philanthropy- The Senior Director is charged with advancing the comprehensive fundraising program that will drive larger success in securing funds to support key priorities, which could include, but are not limited to - endowed scholarships and chairs, academic program support, research funding, and capital projects.
- Develop solicitation strategies for potential major gift donors globally; make direct solicitations; staff deans, faculty, and volunteers as needed.
Serve as liaison to other development teams- The Senior Director will work in collaboration with other members of DAR, Chancellor, and Provost offices staff to be successful and support university-wide objectives.
- Collaboration with other schools, colleges, and programs around the most significant fundraising opportunities that support the academic and research mission of Vanderbilt.
Establish oneself as a knowledgeable staff member by:- Learning the Vanderbilt mission and being knowledgeable about DAR's responsibilities to the mission
- Attaining an in-depth understanding of the development programs and their goals in supporting all schools/units.
- Collaborating with DAR staff to build and maintain best practices in soliciting major and principal gifts.
- Work closely with other development officers, supplying strategic direction and sharing knowledge, when needed.
- Serve as an expert in global philanthropy and engagement.
Enhance departmental performance standards by:- Maintaining a level of reliability that helps stability in the department
- Fostering a spirit of cooperation
- Understanding and effectively communicating departmental policy and procedures
- Conveying thoughts/ideas on improving team performance
Approach each situation with a professional attitude by:- Exercising good judgment in discussing issues and results
- Maintaining composure and a calm demeanor during challenging situations
- Respecting the need for confidentiality of donors and colleagues
- Performing other duties as assigned
Supervisory Relationships:
This position has no direct supervisor responsibilities currently. This position reports administratively and functionally to the Assistant Vice Chancellor of Development, Global Development.
Work Environment:This position will be located in the U.S. but will routinely travel internationally.
Open to candidates that will work remote, but routinely travel to Vanderbilt's campus in Nashville, TN.
Qualifications:The Senior Director must be a professional and polished fundraising officer who understands and is able to articulate the nature and importance of a major research university. Leading candidates should have:
- A bachelor's degree, or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and ability to carry out the essential functions of the job.
- 8 years of relevant experience, or equivalent, is required.
- Prefer 5-7 years of significant fundraising experience closing major and principal gifts within a complex, higher education organization
- Successful track record of closing six and seven figure gifts
- Proficiency in languages spoken throughout Asia and the Middle East is preferred. (i.e. Mandarin )
- Expertise working with highest-level giving constituents
- Excellent organizational skills, oral and written communications skills and the ability to articulate the needs, interests and accomplishments of Vanderbilt University to a wide range of people.
- Interpersonal skills and judgment suitable for exercising appropriate discretion and demeanor when dealing with alumni, parents, friends, and employees
- Ability to exercise good judgment in the handling of confidential information
- Ability to use current computer technology, such as Windows, Excel, Word, and Vanderbilt's donor management system
- A proven record of achievement in major and principal gift fundraising from individuals
- Good written and oral communication skills, specifically in the areas of proposal and presentation development
- Demonstrated success in working across teams and disciplines - facilitating solutions and driving forward priorities
- Familiarity with Vanderbilt and/or solid understanding of a major research university environment is preferred.
- The capacity to perform in an intellectually rigorous and complex academic environment
- Ability to work independently, take initiative, manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and adapt to ever-changing priorities
- Exhibit personal characteristics enabling effective interaction with important constituencies and possess a genuine commitment to the advancement of education, research, and to the principles governing Development and Alumni Relations
- Routine overnight travel is required.
- Some evening and weekend work, as needed.
- Driving is considered an essential job function for this role. Must have and maintain a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record. Vanderbilt University engages a third party to provide up-to-date notifications regarding negative changes to motor vehicle records
- When applying for this position, please include a resume and a cover letter.
