Associate Director of Institutional Engagement, Foundation Relations

Vanderbilt University•Nashville, TN

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate Director of Institutional Engagement, Foundation Relations (Associate Director) plays a pivotal role in advancing Vanderbilt University’s fundraising efforts by developing and executing highly customized engagement plans and/or deliverables for identified Foundations. This includes active management of Foundations, as well as development and execution of custom relationship plans. The Department of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) assists Vanderbilt University in securing the resources, both human and financial, that are required to achieve its mission and goals. The Department is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individuals and organizations whose charitable objectives are consistent with those of Vanderbilt University’s teaching and research programs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent, is required.
Four years of relevant work experience, or the equivalent, is required
Excellent interpersonal skills
Willingness and ability to connect and engage with constituents
Confidentiality and discretion are a must
Must have professional attitude, and exhibit considerable tact, persuasion, and judgement in interactions with internal and external constituents
Strong computer skills including Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word
Affinity for mastering new computer programs, such as our CRM
Demonstrated ability to work successfully with all levels, including high-level executives
Ability to make independent decisions
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Excellent customer service skills
Excellent project management skills
Ability to handle crisis situations and perform well under pressure

Nice To Haves

Prefer experience within higher education and foundation relations
Position requires flexibility to work nights and weekends when needed

Responsibilities

Lead the development, strategy, and implementation of tailored custom relationship plans for Foundations.
Work collaboratively with other Vanderbilt teams, DAR unit leaders, faculty, and campus program leadership to secure timely reporting, as outlined in foundation gift agreements.
Oversee the creation and execution of custom, comprehensive reporting for Foundations to highlight the full impact they have on the university.
Document all foundation gift agreement objectives in DAR’s CRM.
Collaborate with Foundation Relations team members to deliver high-impact donor experiences and opportunities for engagement between Foundations and their beneficiaries/impact.
Introduce new, innovative methods to build the pipeline for Foundations, to recognize gifts, and to inspire ongoing transformational gifts.
Manage foundation portal submissions and reporting.
Serve as the primary Donor Relations liaison for Foundation meetings with leadership on regular basis.
Work in consultation with development officers, to implement proactive, strategic stewardship opportunities for Foundations.
Lead a process during new Foundation gift closes to consider what stewardship is included in the gift agreements.
Advise development officers on tailored engagement.
Manage gifts given to Foundations, overseeing procurement and strategic distribution to enhance the donor experience and underscore the impact of their philanthropy.
Partner with DAR Communications (DARComm) and Communications and Marketing (MarComm) to produce donor feature stories that spotlight exceptional examples of generosity.
Provide insight and expertise on how to enhance the quality and effectiveness of stewardship and engagement programs by keeping informed of best practices, latest ideas, developments, and trends in donor relations.
Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned.