Senior Vice President, Institutional Advan at Virginia Union University – Richmond, Virginia

Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

VUU provides a robust array of academic programs, including 35 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and one Doctoral degree. Virginia Union University remains steadfast in its commitment to offering accessible, high-quality education, instilling a sense of assurance and confidence in its students. It fosters a vibrant intellectual community dedicated to the holistic development of future leaders.

Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.

The Senior Vice President for Institutional Advancement serves as the University’s chief external relationship and revenue development officer, providing visionary leadership and strategic direction for the Corporate & External Affairs Division. Reporting to the President and/or Chief Operating Officer, the SVP is responsible for advancing the University’s mission, reputation, and financial sustainability through comprehensive fundraising, external partnerships, and revenue-generating initiatives. This role oversees Auxiliary Services and leads efforts in corporate partnerships, government relations, community engagement, and entrepreneurial program development. The SVP develops and implements innovative business strategies for self-sustaining enterprises while cultivating strategic alliances that support institutional growth.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute business strategies for self-sustaining, revenue-generating auxiliary enterprises.
• Oversee financial, operational, and personnel functions across all Corporate & External Affairs units.
• Enhance and expand programs to meet divisional and university goals.
• Assess operational effectiveness and implement continuous improvements.
• Lead divisional budget planning and financial management processes.
• Monitor financial performance, analyze monthly reports, and ensure fiscal accountability.
• Maintain accurate financial and personnel records in compliance with university policies.
• Build and sustain relationships with corporate partners, industry leaders, and external stakeholders.
• Lead a comprehensive advancement program including major gifts, annual giving, planned giving, and capital campaigns.
• Serve as a frontline fundraiser, cultivating and securing major gifts and strategic investments.
• Partner with the President and Board to advance institutional fundraising priorities.
• Develop donor engagement strategies, proposals, and impact reports.
• Ensure proper stewardship and compliance with donor intent.
• Serve as the University’s primary liaison to federal, state, and local government entities.
• Monitor legislative developments and advocate for institutional priorities.
• Oversee marketing and promotional strategies for division programs and auxiliary enterprises.
• Provide strategic leadership, supervision, and professional development for divisional staff.
• Foster a high-performance, inclusive, and mission-driven culture.
• Establish goals, track performance, and ensure accountability across all units.
• Lead special projects, prepare executive reports, and serve on university committees as assigned.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive leadership experience, including at least 5 years in an executive or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, including major gifts and capital campaign leadership.
• Must be able to lift 10 pounds.

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact Askhr@vuu.edu.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.

For more information about Virginia Union University, visit VUU About Page.