Assistant Vice President Alumni Affairs and Advocacy

The University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. (UTFI) is seeking a dynamic seasoned professional to serve as the Assistant Vice President for Alumni Affairs and Advocacy (AVP).  As a member of the central leadership team, the AVP reports directly to the Vice President of Development & Alumni Affairs for the Foundation. Leading an office of 4 full time staff, the Assistant Vice President will set the strategic mission and implement programming and outreach of the University of Tennessee Alumni Association (UTAA).  The association includes the Board of Governors, Executive Committee, Alumni Legislative Council and other volunteer groups.  Program management involves planning of meetings, recruitment and training of volunteers, and guidance to officers of each board/committee.  Serving as the primary liaison with the University of Tennessee’s Office of Government Relations and Advocacy, the AVP will collaborate with government relations staff in order to engage key alumni and volunteer leaders on issues related to higher education.  Through marketing, communication, events, and recruitment of volunteers, the AVP will enhance understanding of and participation in university advocacy to make an impact supporting the University of Tennessee.

 

The AVP will manage the UTAA tour/travel program to market tour offerings through effective channels to identified alumni and friends of the university.  The AVP will also be responsible for oversight of programs of alumni career services, marketing, benefits, Women’s Council and system-wide programming and events.   Engagement with corporate partners and sponsors is key to the program success.  

 

Required Qualifications:  For this position a bachelor’s degree is required with at least eight years of combined progressive experience in government relations or closely related field, marketing, public relations, strategic planning, communication, and/or higher education including 2 or more years of direct supervision.

 

Desired Qualifications: The preferred candidate will have an advanced degree with demonstrated success in higher education alumni relations, advancement, and/or similar private or non-profit organization.   An in depth knowledge and experience in planning events, project management, and budget management preferred.  Knowledge of and experience in legislative relations and advocacy, and experience strategizing to identify, cultivate, and motivate volunteers is preferred.

 

The ideal candidate will have excellent organization skills, strong demonstrated communication and interpersonal skills, project management skills, demonstrated ability to effectively collaborate across divisions and motivate employees and volunteers; and, be able to effectively work in a team-oriented environment. Ability to travel when necessary and work on evening and weekends is necessary in the role. Appreciation of diversity in thought and experience is necessary. Must possess an interest in policy issues affecting public colleges and universities.

In order to be considered for candidacy, submit a cover letter and resume in addition to your online application profile. Use the link below and keyword 19000000TE.

https://hr.tennessee.edu/jobs/staff-positions/

The University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA employer.  All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or protected veteran status.

The University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the University of Tennessee Foundation’s legal duty to furnish information.