Vice President of Advancement

Are you interested in building a career that makes a difference and creates a legacy? Parker University, the fourth-fastest growing college in Texas and the fastest-growing college in Dallas, is currently searching for a Vice President of Advancement to join our rapidly expanding team! We are seeking individuals who desire to use their unique skills to innovate and make an impact.

The Vice President of Advancement is responsible for leading all advancement activities that promote the university’s mission and enhance its visibility among alumni and other potential supporters. The Vice President of Advancement will provide strategic leadership for fundraising, donor engagement, and alumni relations. The role also leads the planning and execution of critical fundraising campaigns to support institutional priorities.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING:

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive advancement strategy aligned with Parker University’s vision and goals.

• Lead all fundraising efforts, including major gifts, annual giving, planned giving, corporate partnerships, and campaigns.

• Oversee donor stewardship programs, ensuring personalized, consistent, and meaningful engagement.

• Foster relationships with alumni, friends, foundations, corporations, and other potential supporters.

• Direct advancement communications, special events, and donor recognition activities that strengthen the university’s brand and presence.

• Serve as a trusted advisor to the President and collaborate closely with university leadership, faculty, and staff to advance fundraising priorities.

• Manage and mentor the advancement team, promoting a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional growth.

• Represent Parker University at events and in the community to enhance institutional visibility and develop new philanthropic relationships.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED: 

EDUCATION/EXPERTISE:

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred

• 7 to 10 years of progressively responsible experience in a nonprofit setting.

• Proven track record of success in fundraising leadership, preferably in higher education or a related nonprofit setting in healthcare or academic medicine.

• Demonstrated experience in major gift strategy and solicitation, campaign planning, and managing high-performing advisory boards and other key volunteers.

• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to inspire and motivate staff and volunteers.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships and represent the university with integrity and enthusiasm.

• Knowledge of current trends in philanthropy, donor relations, and alumni engagement.

• Optimist, collaborator, and attractor of talent who empowers everyone around them to succeed.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Visual acuity to use a keyboard and view a computer terminal. Requires good hand-eye coordination, arm, hand and finger dexterity, including ability to grasp.

• Ambulatory skills sufficient to visit other locations; or the ability to stand and walk.

• Ability to occasionally lift, carry and/or move light to medium weight up to twelve (12) pounds and/or exert up to twelve (12) pounds of force.

  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Why Parker?

Founded in 1982 by Dr. James William Parker, Parker University has more than 1,800 students and 34 academic programs. Parker University proudly offers its famed Doctor of Chiropractic degree and Business and Technology and Health Sciences programs. Parker University has been recognized as a Great College to Work For and one of the 25 Fastest-Growing Colleges in the U.S.

The University also operates the Parker Performance Institute (PPI) in Frisco. Located at The Star, home of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters and practice facility, PPI empowers clients to reach their performance potential through innovative therapeutic programs that integrate cutting-edge physical and neurological-based treatments. Learn more at www.parkerperformanceinstitute.com. 

Parker University offers competitive salaries, generous benefits, and the opportunity to engage with our unique campus community.