Vice President for Institutional Advancement

University of Tulsa•Tulsa, OK

17h•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Tulsa is seeking a Vice President for Institutional Advancement (VPIA) to lead and modernize its resource-raising enterprise. This senior leadership role requires a people-centered, entrepreneurial, and results-driven individual who can combine analytical skills with strong relationship-building capabilities. The VPIA will partner with the incoming President to shape the future of the University, driving innovation, operational excellence, and transparency. The core mission involves building and executing a comprehensive institutional advancement strategy to support academic excellence, enhance the student experience, and optimize research and community impact. This highly visible position is measured by the quality of institutional and community partnerships, including public-private collaborations, and will significantly contribute to the vitality of the University, the City of Tulsa, and its philanthropic partners.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
Demonstrated record of securing six- and seven-figure gifts and delivering measurable fundraising growth.
Minimum of 10 years of experience leading advancement or revenue-generating functions, including team leadership and operational modernization.
Strong proficiency with CRM systems, analytics, and digital engagement tools.
Exceptional communication skills and executive presence.
Experience engaging senior stakeholders and community leaders.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree or certifications.
Campaign planning and execution experience.
Background in higher education or similarly complex sectors.
Familiarity with or ability to quickly establish relationships within the Tulsa business and philanthropic community.

Responsibilities

Set and execute a bold, multi-year advancement strategy aligned with institutional priorities.
Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership and translate the University’s vision into compelling philanthropic opportunities.
Lead by example in securing transformational gifts, managing a portfolio of high-level prospects.
Build and sustain relationships with major donors, corporations, and foundations while driving measurable growth in revenue and donor engagement.
Modernize advancement through data, technology, and digital engagement.
Implement best-in-class systems, analytics, and processes to strengthen pipeline management, reporting, and organizational effectiveness.
Design and execute comprehensive engagement strategies across donors, alumni, parents, and partners.
Collaborate with academic and institutional leaders to align donor interests with strategic priorities.
Serve as a visible ambassador, strengthening the University’s role across business, civic, and philanthropic communities while building strategic partnerships that enhance institutional impact.
Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing advancement team.
Foster a culture of accountability, inclusion, innovation, and continuous professional growth.