Lipscomb University seeks a dynamic and relational leader to serve as its next Senior Vice President for Advancement, responsible for leading the institution's philanthropic strategy and strengthening engagement across the Lipscomb community. Reporting directly to the President and serving as a member of the President's Cabinet, the Senior Vice President will partner closely with President Candice McQueen to shape and advance a comprehensive fundraising strategy that supports both Lipscomb University and Lipscomb Academy, reflecting the distinctive connection between the university and its affiliated K-12 school.
The successful candidate will bring both strategic vision and operational leadership, combining a proven ability to cultivate major and principal gifts with the capacity to lead and develop a high-performing advancement team. This leader will help articulate Lipscomb's story in compelling ways, foster a culture of generosity across the university and academy communities, and position the institution for its next era of growth and impact.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Advancement Leadership
- Serve as the chief advancement strategist for Lipscomb University, developing and executing a comprehensive advancement strategy aligned with institutional priorities.
- Partner with the President and senior leadership to identify and articulate philanthropic priorities that advance the university's mission and strategic goals.
- Strengthen a culture of generosity and philanthropic engagement across the Lipscomb community.
- Lead the planning, development, and execution of Lipscomb's next comprehensive fundraising campaign.
- Fundraising and Donor Engagement
- Personally cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with principal and major donors capable of making transformational gifts.
- Expand and diversify the university's base of philanthropic support through major gifts, annual giving, planned giving, and foundation and corporate partnerships.
- Partner with the President and trustees in high-level donor engagement and fundraising initiatives.
- Institutional Advancement Leadership
- Provide leadership and coordination for advancement efforts serving both Lipscomb University and Lipscomb Academy, ensuring alignment of messaging, engagement, and philanthropic strategy across the Lipscomb community.
- Provide strategic leadership and coordination for the academy advancement team in partnership with the Head of School.
- Oversee alumni relations and parent engagement efforts that build lifelong connections to Lipscomb.
- Team and Operational Leadership
- Lead and develop a high-performing advancement team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and excellence.
- Strengthen and grow the advancement team as needed to support campaign priorities and long-term fundraising success.
- Ensure best practices in prospect research, donor stewardship, gift processing, and advancement analytics.
- Oversee advancement planning, goal-setting, budgeting, and performance metrics to support sustained growth in philanthropic support.
Qualifications and Characteristics:
The successful candidate will bring a deep commitment to Lipscomb University's Christian mission and the ability to lead advancement efforts that reflect the institution's values and vision.
- Professional Experience
- Significant experience in advancement, philanthropy, business development, sales, or related fields with a demonstrated ability to cultivate relationships and secure major investments.
- Proven success cultivating and securing major gifts, ideally including seven- and eight-figure commitments.
- Experience planning or leading a comprehensive capital campaign or similarly complex fundraising initiative is preferred.
- Experience leading teams and managing complex initiatives within a mission-driven organization.
- Leadership and Personal Qualities
- A strategic and visionary leader who can translate institutional priorities into compelling philanthropic opportunities.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage diverse constituencies.
- A collaborative leader who works effectively with senior leadership, trustees, faculty, and volunteers.
- A demonstrated commitment to Lipscomb University's Christian mission, including an active and growing Christian faith, and alignment with the university's Centering Core.
- A person of integrity, humility, and relational warmth who supports and affirms Lipscomb's Statement of Faith.
- Education
- Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
