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Husson University

Vice President for Advancement

Husson University, Bangor, Maine, us, 04401

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Reporting to the President, the Vice President for Advancement assumes overall responsibilities for leadership and management of a comprehensive institutional advancement program at Husson University. The Vice President’s responsibilities include the general operations and strategic planning for all fundraising and alumni engagement activities, including the annual fund, major gifts, capital campaigns, alumni engagement strategies, grants acquisition and administration, marketing, and public relations. This role also collaborates with advisory boards and community/business leaders to promote Husson’s mission as a premier professional university. The Vice President for Advancement serves as a member of the President’s Senior Cabinet.

Responsibilities

Work with the President and the Board of Trustees to develop a dynamic philanthropic program.

Develop and execute the University’s short‑ and long‑term strategic budgeting, financial planning, and administrative initiatives.

Provide support and staffing to the President, including a portfolio of top donors and prospects.

Support the Advancement Committee of the Board.

Provide strategic direction to the Alumni Association Board of Directors and other advisory boards to further the mission and support of the University.

Establish collegial working relationships with the President, the Advancement team, Senior Cabinet members, the Board of Trustees (specifically the Board’s Advancement Committee) and other key institutional leaders to identify, develop, implement and assess strategies to increase philanthropic support for the University that includes unrestricted giving, major/endowment giving, planned giving and grants.

Provide leadership, supervision, and management of the Advancement team including the annual setting of strategic priorities, performance plans, evaluation and assessment, interpretation and analysis of annual program goals and results that are aligned and congruent with the University’s overall strategic plan.

Provide leadership for the Alumni Engagement and Development programs that will enhance the University’s engagement of alumni, parents, and friends in raising philanthropic support.

Work effectively with University Marketing and Communication Offices to develop appropriate and timely key messages and materials to support the advancement efforts targeted to various constituent groups.

Develop productive relationships with members of the senior management of all divisions of the University to best understand and position the University’s strengths, priorities and needs.

Assist and support the President and Trustees in identifying, cultivating, and establishing long‑term relationships that will yield significant support from donors and prospects.

Collaborate with Marketing, Admissions, Academic Affairs, and Student Affairs in building and enhancing the engagement opportunities of all current and prospective donor constituencies.

Work closely with the finance & administrative divisions to ensure that all gift receipts and acknowledgements are managed appropriately in a timely fashion and reported to entities as required.

Ensure the accurate and timely reporting of gifts and implementing comprehensive results reporting systems to facilitate sound decision‑making to advance the University.

Represent the University at events and functions and serve as a valuable and visible member of the University and local community.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum of 7 to 10 years of progressively responsible fundraising experience in higher education and/or comparable non‑profit organization, including 2 years in management positions supervising fundraising staff. Experience in alumni engagement is preferred.

Demonstrated experience with major gifts, comprehensive campaigns, planned and deferred giving, corporate and foundation solicitation, grant administration, and annual fund programs.

Education

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education is required.

Master’s degree in relevant areas or appropriate advanced professional certifications is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Dynamic and experienced development professional who is a strong leader, collaborator, strategic thinker and team leader.

Strong interpersonal and communication (verbal and written) skills with Trustees, alumni, corporate and community leaders, donors, prospects, professional peers and colleagues.

Understanding of marketing as it relates to advancement opportunities and functions.

High level of energy, entrepreneurial spirit, a reputation for accepting and meeting challenges and a sense of humor.

Knowledgeable of database management technology and committed to its use to facilitate program planning, prospect management, donor research, and results analysis.

Person of high integrity committed to upholding the Mission of the University and to earning the respect and support of faculty, staff, donors and external constituencies.

Ability to effectively supervise, coach, and motivate Advancement staff.

Fosters open, collaborative work environment.

Keeps current with and ensures adherence to industry best practices.

Compensation and Benefits Annual compensation will be based on the successful candidate’s experience and salary requirements. The University offers a competitive benefits package.

Deadline for Submission The Vice President for Advancement position is available now and will be filled by January 1, 2026, or sooner. Qualified candidates should apply immediately. This position will remain open until a successful candidate has been hired.

How to Apply When applying for this position, please ensure you have attached a cover letter, résumé, and three professional references to your online application. (HR to provide online application instructions)

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