Senior Vice President and Development

The Senior Vice President for Advancement and Development serves as the chief architect of Simmons College of Kentucky’s fundraising and resource development initiatives. This executive leader is responsible for designing and executing innovative strategies to secure financial support that advances the mission and sustainability of the institution. Through donor cultivation, corporate partnerships, and community engagement, the Senior Vice President will ensure Simmons possesses the financial resources necessary to thrive as a premier Historically Black College and University (HBCU).

As an institution committed to education, equity, and opportunity for Black students, Simmons College of Kentucky requires strategic, visionary leadership in advancement to support and expand its impact. This position is instrumental in communicating the college’s vision to stakeholders and rallying collective support from various constituencies.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Fundraising and Resource Development:

• Design, implement, and lead comprehensive fundraising strategies, including annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, and corporate and foundation relations.
• Develop and execute innovative campaigns to secure financial support, including the college’s endowment and capital campaigns.
• Serve as the lead strategist for major institutional funding initiatives and high-impact projects.
• Identify, cultivate, and solicit major donors, corporations, and philanthropic organizations to support Simmons College’s financial needs.

2. Institutional Advancement and Donor Relations:

• Establish and sustain long-term relationships with key stakeholders, including alumni, community leaders, corporations, philanthropic foundations, and government entities.
• Develop and oversee donor stewardship programs to ensure continued engagement and investment in Simmons College.
• Lead efforts to secure transformational gifts that align with the college’s strategic goals.
• Work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and external partners to create compelling cases for support.

3. Leadership and Staff Development:

• Provide visionary leadership and direction for the Advancement and Development Department, ensuring high levels of staff productivity and professional growth.
• Build and maintain a high-performing advancement team through mentorship, professional development, and clear performance metrics.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and excellence within the division.

4. Strategic Communication and External Engagement:

• Serve as a spokesperson and ambassador for Simmons College, articulating its mission, vision, and impact to diverse audiences.
• Develop communication strategies that effectively convey the importance of philanthropy and investment in the institution.
• Engage in high-level networking to expand the institution’s donor base and strategic partnerships.
• Represent the college at national and local events to strengthen its presence and fundraising efforts.

5. Compliance and Financial Stewardship:

• Ensure fundraising initiatives align with legal, ethical, and financial compliance standards.
• Work closely with the Chief Financial Officer to develop financial projections, budgetary needs, and fundraising goals.
• Monitor and assess fundraising effectiveness through data-driven decision-making and reporting.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree required;
  Master’s degree preferred or equivalent experience in fundraising, nonprofit management, business administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in institutional advancement, fundraising, or development.
• Proven track record of securing major gifts, developing strategic donor engagement plans, and leading successful capital campaigns.
• Strong experience in donor relations, corporate partnerships, and foundation fundraising.
• Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to inspire, manage, and develop a high-performing advancement team.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to craft compelling fundraising proposals and presentations.
• Demonstrated ability to cultivate relationships with diverse stakeholders,…