Assistant Vice President for University Advancement

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About Holy Family University

Holy Family University is a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth founded in 1954. The University is a private institution in the Catholic tradition with campus locations in Philadelphia and Newtown PA. The main campus is nestled in the heart of a historic residential neighborhood in Northeast Philadelphia that is vibrant and just minutes from the excitement of Center City. The Newtown campus is located in Bucks County surrounded by nature and a step away from parks, farmers’ markets and great dining.

One of the best parts of Holy Family University is our welcoming atmosphere--and that's not by chance. Our mission centers on creating an environment that encourages all members to get to know one another, learn from one another, and experience a range of perspectives and worldviews. Our community is strong because of this.

University Benefits

Holy Family University takes pride in offering a range of meaningful and flexible benefits designed to promote the health and wellness of our employees and their dependents. Our comprehensive benefits and resources focus on physical, mental and financial wellness to include medical, prescription, dental and vision. We did not stop there; we also offer our employees the following fringe benefits and more.

  • Commuter Benefits: Transit and park benefits through pre-tax payroll deductions
  • Half-Day Fridays: Enjoy half day Fridays in the summer
  • 403(b) Retirement: Discretionary match up to 5%; vested immediately
  • Time Off: 12 Paid Holidays, Vacation, Personal, Sick Days and a week off for Winter Break
  • Tuition Benefits: Employees or dependents pursuing a first Undergraduate Degree receive 100% tuition remission; employees pursuing a first Master’s or Doctoral degree, receive 100% tuition remission; eligible dependents pursuing a first Master’s or Doctoral degree, receive 50% tuition discount
  • Alpha House: 50% Discount for Nursery, Pre-K and Kindergarten 

Position Summary

The Assistant Vice President (AVP) for University Advancement fulfills a key role in partnering with the Vice President in expanding the Advancement team and building a sustainable culture of philanthropy and alumni engagement that will strengthen Holy Family University and secure its legacy for the future.

As a member of the leadership team, the AVP provides strategic direction and oversight of the programs in annual, major and planned giving, alumni relations, donor relations and prospect management. Working collaboratively with the VP, the AVP will develop, help implement and achieve strategic plans for increasing alumni engagement, growing the annual and major giving programs and increasing philanthropic support for University’s priorities. Emphasis will be on coaching and managing the team to ensure progress towards goals.

Leading by example, the AVP will also effectively manage a portfolio of (approximately 50) major gift prospects and work with colleagues within UA and across the University in creating and implementing strategies designed to further loyalty, engagement and financial support of Holy Family.

The successful candidate will be a collaborative, innovative and strategic thinker with a strong track record in major gift fundraising and managing high performing advancement teams. 

Direct Reports

Exec. Director of Engagement and Annual Giving (who oversees Director of Annual Giving and Director of Advancement Events and Communications), and the Advancement Manager.

Essential Functions

Job duties that must be performed, with or without reasonable accommodation, and may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. This position description is illustrative and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbents in this position.

  • Provide leadership and direction for a best-practices alumni engagement, annual giving and major giving program in collaboration with the VP and advancement colleagues
  • With the VP, develop a comprehensive, multi-year fundraising and alumni engagement strategy and plan for University Advancement, aligned with the University’s Strategic Plan
  • Help design, lead, and execute on annual goals and objectives, budgets, and staffing for Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving Programs, Major and Planned Giving and manage direct reports and work with team to achieve agreed upon annual performance metrics and fundraising goals
  • Work with the Vice President and team to identify and cultivate alumni and partners to ensure a robust major giving pool
  • Manage a portfolio of approximately 50 potential major gift prospects. Identify, cultivate, solicit and cultivate their participation in the Bold Vision comprehensive campaign
  • Work with the Executive Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving and team to build out a best practices-informed annual giving strategy and oversee the execution of a robust direct marketing program using targeted solicitations across all channels for donor acquisition, renewal and retention
  • Work with the Executive Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving and team, to develop a strategic alumni relations program to expand the University’s engagement with a greater number of alumni, friends and parents using a multi-channel approach through digital, print and in-person programs
  • Help coordinate the education of and participation of faculty, administration, trustees, volunteers, and development staff in achieving fundraising objectives
  • Build effective collaborations across the department and the University overall
  • Effectively communicate Holy Family University's values and mission
  • Contribute to a culture of best fundraising practices in advancement and building a robust culture of philanthropy at Holy Family University

Other Duties/Responsibilities

  • Participate in all advancement related events
  • Participate in University-wide events
  • Represent the Advancement office and University at select external events
  • Other duties as assigned by Vice President for University Advancement

General Expectations

Employees are expected to accomplish assigned duties in an efficient, effective and competent manner and to strive for improvement and excellence in all work performed. Employees must understand the mission and demonstrate the core values of the University. Additionally, demonstrate the ability to work with diverse personalities, and harmoniously with students, faculty and staff, and the public. Employees are expected to follow and abide by all University policies, rules, regulations and guidelines.

Education & Experience Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree, with an advanced degree preferred
  • Track record of significant personal success as a major gift fundraiser
  • 5-7 years of advancement experience; experience in higher education preferred
  • Demonstrated success managing advancement teams

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Leadership skills that are collaborative and inclusive
  • The ability to foster an empowered, inspired and positive culture for all team members
  • Excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills
  • Superb organizational skills and the ability to multi-task
  • Ability to work independently as well collaboratively with team members
  • Comprehensive knowledge of strategies employed in all advancement functions
  • Knowledge of and ability to follow university policies and procedures
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the campus community
  • Commitment to the mission and core values of Holy Family University

Work Environment

Operates in an office environment, that may have frequent interruptions. The area is well-lit, temperature controlled and free from hazards. Noise level is generally quiet to moderate.

Physical Requirements

Communicates frequently, in person, over the phone, or via a computer.  Hearing is needed for extensive telephone and in person communication. Regularly required to sit for long periods of time; use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms. Manual dexterity is needed in order to operate a computer keyboard. Operates standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.

Other Important Information

  • Some local travel required. Occasional overnight travel
  • Should teleworking become necessary, employee must be willing and able to perform all parts of this job description while working from home, on campus or a combination, and be proficient or willing to become proficient in the technology needed to work remotely

Non-Discrimination Statement

Holy Family University seeks to foster a welcoming and a healthy educational and work environment based on respect, the dignity of each person and the oneness of the human family. Holy Family University is dedicated to ensuring an environment free of discrimination or harassment of any kind, and promotes equal opportunity in its employment and education.

Find more details on our commitment to nondiscrimination.

We invite qualified applicants to view our open positions and apply directly at our career center by submitting a cover letter and resume.