We are seeking a dynamic, proactive professional to serve as Director of Strategic Initiatives to the Vice President for Advancement. This role requires a strong background in fundraising combined with exceptional leadership and problem-solving skills. The ideal candidate will combine fundraising expertise with a growth mindset, proactive approach, and natural diplomatic abilities to support the VP in advancing the institution’s philanthropic mission.

About University of Utah Advancement

Mission: We generate engagement and philanthropic support to advance the University of Utah’s priorities.

Vision: By 2028, we will be a top 10 public advancement organization and a premier place to work, engage, and support.

Core Values

Belonging: We are a safe community for our best selves; We honor and embrace our varied experiences; We connect with, listen to, and learn from one another.

Collaboration: We are one advancement community, and we partner with each other; We are united in decision-making processes and information sharing; We respect and utilize one another’s expertise, talent, and skills.

Empowerment: We are entrusted to make informed decisions and move forward; We encourage and advocate for ourselves and one another; We have access to resources for professional growth and development.

Integrity: We commit to follow professional and ethical standards; We respect personal values; We communicate with transparency and accountability.

Responsibilities

-Cultivate and nurture strategic relationships across the spectrum of internal stakeholders, major donors, and advancement team members to drive institutional success;

-Create and sustain an energetic, inclusive work environment that promotes innovation through meaningful relationships with team members and peers;

-Skillfully navigate complex situations with exceptional diplomatic acumen;

-Partner with the Vice President to strategically prioritize and execute mission-critical projects while managing day-to-day responsibilities with precision;

-Spearhead the development and oversight of comprehensive briefs, strategic research initiatives, compelling reports, and polished presentations in preparation for meetings;Promote One U collaboration among colleges and areas, across campus, and in concert with University Advancement;

-This position will report solely to the Vice President and will not involve directing or managing other members of the Advancement office or Leadership team;

-This position will not have a Leadership role but will provide support to the VP during Leadership team meetings;

-Assist the VP in managing relationships with major donors, ensuring their contributions are acknowledged and their engagement with the institution is maintained;

-Assist Vice President at fundraising events, alumni gatherings, and other advancement-related activities;

-Serve as a liaison between the advancement office and other departments, ensuring clear and consistent communication.

-Handle any issues and crises that arise by providing quick and effective solutions.

-Help develop and implement policies and procedures to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the advancement office.

Work Environment and Level of Frequency typically required

Nearly Continuously: Office environment.

Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required

Nearly Continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking.

Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking.

Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, or related area, or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience); eight years of progressively more responsible management experience; and demonstrated leadership, human relations and effective communications skills required.

Masters degree in Business Administration, or related area preferred.

Department Specific requirements:

• Proven track record in fundraising and advancement operations;

• Demonstrated mastery of written and verbal communication skills;

• Demonstrated integrity and strong ethical principles;

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, as part of a team;

• Demonstrated analytical and strategic thinking capabilities; ability to embrace challenges and thrive in a fast-paced team-oriented environment;

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively, creatively, and inclusively with a variety of constituencies and diversity of ideas;

• Superior attention to detail;

• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building abilities;

• Positive, proactive attitude with strong initiative;

• Strong research and analytical skills;

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).

Preferences

• Advanced degree in relevant field preferred;

• Experience in higher education advancement;

• Track record of leadership development and growth.

Type Benefited Staff

Special Instructions Summary

Additional Information

The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.

This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.

The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and patients from all backgrounds and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education and quality healthcare for historically underrepresented students and patients.

All qualified individuals are strongly encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.

The University of Utah is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.

To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action ( OEO /AA). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at: https://www.utah.edu/nondiscrimination/

Online reports may be submitted at oeo.utah.edu

https://safety.utah.edu/safetyreport This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.