Vice President of University Advancement
Vice President of University Advancement
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Job Description
JOB TITLE
Vice President of University AdvancementLOCATION
WorcesterDEPARTMENT NAME
Presidents DivisionDIVISION NAME
Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPIJOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY
Worcester Polytechnic Institute invites nominations and applications for the position of Vice President for University Advancement (VPUA). This is an opportunity for a strategic leader to reshape the universitys approach to advancement and philanthropy at a premier STEM institution known for its distinctive combination of theory practice and project-based learning.The VPUA will join WPI during a period of significant momentum as the university celebrates its Carnegie R1 research status and approaches the completion of the current phase of its historic $500 million Beyond These Towers campaign. Reporting directly to President Grace Wang and serving as a member of her senior leadership team the Vice President will guide the transformation of WPIs advancement strategy operations and culture.
Working collaboratively with the President Board of Trustees and academic leaders the VPUA will identify compelling funding opportunities that showcase WPIs unique project-based curriculum and global impact. Leading a dedicated team of 50 advancement professionals the successful candidate will strengthen alumni activation enhance data-driven fundraising approaches and create authentic relationships that translate WPIs educational excellence into philanthropic partnerships.
All inquiries nominations and applications should be directed to Please see below for a comprehensive position profile.
JOB DESCRIPTION
- Transform and lead a comprehensive advancement strategy that aligns fundraising priorities with WPIs strategic vision as a premier R1 technological university
- Build and inspire a collaborative advancement organization of 50 professionals fostering a culture of excellence innovation and shared accountability
- Cultivate and secure major principal and transformative gifts from individuals corporations and foundations serving as WPIs chief donor strategist for top prospects while empowering gift officers
- Partner closely with the President and Board of Trustees to lead the successful completion of the current phase of the Beyond These Towers campaign and establish the foundation for WPIs next transformational phase
- Create strategies to deepen engagement with WPIs 45000 global alumni through compelling donor stories mentoring programs and pathways that showcase philanthropys impact
- Develop and lead strategic corporate and foundation relations that leverage WPIs project-based curriculum and R1 research capabilities to create meaningful institutional connections spanning philanthropy sponsored research and talent development
- Lead the enhancement of existing advancement technology platforms and data systems to enable sophisticated donor intelligence and analytics streamline operations and strengthen WPIs relationship-focused approach
- Oversee advancement operations including budget management gift processing donor records and compliance to ensure efficient and transparent resource management
- Serve as a key member of the Presidents Cabinet contributing to university-wide strategic planning and decision-making
- Align advancement operations with academic priorities through close collaboration with deans and faculty leaders
- Champion a campus-wide culture of philanthropy that ensures every division understands its role in advancing WPIs mission
- Establish clear metrics and accountability systems to evaluate advancement effectiveness and demonstrate impact
Requirements:
- Bachelors degree required; advanced degree preferred
- At least 10 years of senior-level advancement or development leadership experience preferably in higher education or a similarly complex mission-driven environment
- Demonstrated expertise and success in cultivating soliciting and closing major and principal gifts including experience partnering with institutional leaders and volunteers
- Experience in building annual giving and alumni engagement strategies
- Proven experience leading comprehensive campaigns and building sustainable advancement programs that deliver results
- Strong operational background including experience modernizing existing systems implementing technologies and establishing data-driven processes
- Proven record of building collaborative high-performing teams with a culture of trust transparency and shared accountability
- Exceptional communication skills with the ability to articulate compelling cases for support and WPIs distinctive educational approach
- Deep understanding of the changing fundraising and higher education landscape including emerging technologies like predictive analytics and AI that are transforming philanthropic engagement
- Cultural fluency and ability to engage authentically with diverse constituents including first-generation graduates and emerging leaders
- Experience using advancement systems and data analytics to inform strategy and optimize donor engagement; familiarity with Salesforce is a plus but not required
- Detail oriented and data driven with refined interpersonal skills that foster strong relationships with donors and Board members
- High ethical standards emotional intelligence and deep commitment to WPIs mission and values
- Willingness and ability to travel extensively on behalf of the university nationally and internationally
For a comprehensive position profile and application instructions please click here.
FLSA STATUS
United States of America (Exempt)WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color age religion sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin veteran statusor disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity collaboration inclusion problem solving innovation high performance and change is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.
Required Experience:
Chief
Employment Type
Full-Time
