Vice President for Advancement

Gardner-Webb University seeks an experienced, energetic, and visionary Vice President for Advancement to lead the institution’s multifaceted fundraising efforts. The Vice President for Advancement is responsible for designing and implementing comprehensive programs to increase philanthropic outcomes. Building on Gardner-Webb University’s strong recent momentum and growing culture of engagement, this leader will professionalize and institutionalize advancement strategies, systems, and relationships to ensure sustainable, long-term philanthropic success.

 The incumbent will shape and lead a team focused on strengthening alumni and constituent engagement, stewardship, and advancement services. Advancement’s portfolio includes GWU’s annual fund, corporate and foundation relations, major gifts and estate planning, the Bulldog Club, and capital campaigns.

The general duties of the Vice President for Advancement include the following:

• Advance the mission, vision, and short- and long-term goals of the University in coordination with the President;  
• Serve as a member of President’s leadership cabinet and maintain close working relationships with members of the Board of Trustees and key alumni, parents, and friends;
• Create and execute fundraising plans that utilize all members of the Advancement staff;
• Maintain and grow a dynamic portfolio of high-net-worth donors;
• Provide leadership for a new, comprehensive capital campaign;
• Travel to meet with prospects and donors as a representative of Gardner-Webb University;
• Hire, train, inspire, and guide the Advancement team toward accountable goals;
• Conduct regular meetings of the Advancement Office staff;
• Work closely with departments on campus to develop a culture of philanthropy;
• Serve as the liaison for University Advancement at Trustee meetings;
• Serve as an advocate for the University and the President in the community and with local and state leaders;
• Work closely with the President on his advancement activities;
• Any other duties as assigned by the President.

The Vice President of Advancement will function as the top fundraiser for the University and maintain a personal portfolio of major gift donors and prospects that will include trustees and the most significant donors to the University.

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's/master's degree in marketing, communications, or relevant discipline from an accredited institution of higher education.
• Experience creating strategic marketing plans, implementation and outcome reporting with both internal and external partners. Public relations and crisis management is a plus but not required.
• Experience as a direct manager of a team with turnaround experience as a plus.
• Experience in higher education is a plus, but not required.

Compensation:

Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Candidates should complete the application and include a letter of interest, résumé, and names and contact information for at least three professional references with their submission.  

Gardner-Webb University is a Christian university committed to helping individuals become more in faith, learning, and service. Located in Boiling Springs, North Carolina, GWU offers the benefits of a close-knit community with easy access to Charlotte, Asheville, and the greater Greenville-Spartanburg region. 

Founded in 1905 and rooted in the Baptist tradition, the University now serves approximately 3,000 students across more than 80 undergraduate and graduate programs. As a Carnegie Doctoral/Professional institution, Gardner-Webb is dedicated to academic excellence, leadership development, and meaningful service to others. 

Our community reflects a shared commitment to One Webb, creating an environment where people support one another, pursue their purpose, and work together to make a lasting impact. GWU attracts students from across the nation and around the world and competes in NCAA Division I athletics with 22 teams and more than 500 student-athletes.