Associate Vice President for Development

Rice is widely recognized among America’s great research universities, yet even in that category, it is distinctive: Rice is a great small university. That is, while smaller than most, Rice is able to compete with the best in the nation and, indeed, in the world. To support and to enhance this record of success, Rice University seeks a new associate vice president for development (AVP).

Reporting to the vice president for development and alumni relations, Kathi Dantley Warren, and serving as a member of her leadership staff, this person will provide leadership, evaluation and mentoring to the individual giving, planned giving and annual giving programs by coordinating efforts to maximize philanthropic support.

After the great success of Rice's Centennial Campaign (2005-2013), which exceeded its ambitious $1 billion goal by raising $1.1 billion, and the Initiative for Students (2014-2017), which significantly expanded volunteer and philanthropic support for the student experience, the university is planning for the potential launch of its next comprehensive campaign. The new AVP will be a main point of contact with campus leadership, working to develop philanthropic and fundraising strategies, as well as managing the participation of deans and other university leaders in philanthropy and preparing them for prospect meetings and solicitations. As a senior fundraising leader, this person will be a member of the principal gifts team and manage a portfolio of major and principal gift prospects capable of gifts at the $1M+ level. The AVP will work to ensure the successful achievement of aggressive fundraising goals for him or herself and the team and will have extensive experience working on a comprehensive campaign. This person will oversee a team of 50 and will have a minimum of ten years experience. A bachelor’s degree is required and a master’s degree is preferred. Additional information can be found at www.wittkieffer.com

Inquiries, nominations and applications are invited. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. Candidates should provide a curriculum vitae, a letter of application that addresses the responsibilities and requirements described in the Leadership Statement, and the names and contact information of five references. References will not be contacted without prior knowledge and approval of candidates. These materials should be sent electronically via e-mail to the Rice University’s consultants, Mercedes Chacón Vance and Lisa Meyer at RiceAVPDev@wittkieffer.com.

Rice University values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity for all persons regardless of age, color, disability, ethnicity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other status protected by law.