Vice President for University Development

Vice President for University Development - University of Charleston

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Home/Job Postings/Vice President for University Development

Vice President for University Development

Posted November 9, 2026

Vice President for University Development

Office of University Development, University of Charleston

Position Summary:

The University of Charleston (UC), a private comprehensive regional university in the capitol of West Virginia, seeks an accomplished friend and fundraiser who will have a direct, measurable impact on the university's future. UC is growing through market responsive program innovation, relationships with regional employers, and effective storytelling. Excellent momentum securing transformative gifts supporting scholarships, academic programs, facilities, and strategic initiatives has the university positioned for future advancement success.

The Vice President for University Development (VP for Development) reports directly to the President and is a member of the University Cabinet leadership team. The VP for Development leads and directs the university's fundraising activities, donor research and stewardship, and alumni, parent, and friend relations. The VP also serves as a liaison with the Outreach Committee of the University's Board of Trustees. The VP oversees a team of four other advancement professionals and graduate assistants.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Lead the overall fundraising strategy of the University, including annual fundraising activities, planned gifts cultivation, and capital campaigns.
• Develop and manage a portfolio of prospects, including personal cultivation, solicitation, closing of gifts, and stewardship.
• Build and maintain relationships as a University representative with donors, friends, alumni, and community organizations and individuals both in Charleston and throughout the state.
• Oversee and coordinate the fundraising activities of all University departments and organizations, including academic departments, athletics, student organizations, and the University Builders.
• Promote the University by conducting cultivation events for donor prospects and by representing the University at social functions.
• Engage in grant writing and donor reporting.
• Support the President's development activities through strategy planning and the management of contacts, research, preparation, and follow-up materials.
• Support and coordinate board members, administrators, faculty members, and volunteers in raising funds for the University.
• Oversee the work of alumni relations, annual fund, major gift solicitation, donor research and recognition, record keeping and reporting, and related functions.
• Hire, train, supervise, and support all of the members of the University Development Office
• Create and maintain a team-focused working environment.
• Work collegially with other University leaders and foster productive relationships with all institutional groups.
• Accept other duties as may be requested.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Five-plus years of increasing responsibility in fundraising or in a position requiring the same skills and knowledge
• Five-plus years of experience in directing, overseeing, or managing a work team
• Bachelor's Degree required; advanced degree preferred
• Desired Qualities and Competencies
• Strong leadership and motivational skills
• Proven ability to work collaboratively
• A high level of energy and drive to lead a high-performing team
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Strong analytic and data skills
• Ability to develop and deliver clear reports
• Expertise with database management and use; Raiser's Edge NT experience a plus
• Demonstrated ability to develop, implement, and evaluate strategic plans
• Proficiency in forming and working with clearly identified financial and donor contact goals
• Confidence in representing the University to external constituents
• The ability to be engaging with a wide variety of audiences while gaining their respect and trust
• Willingness to travel and to be involved in evening and weekend activities

Salary is commensurate with experience and expertise. Review of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references to:

Erica Paxton ericapaxton@ucwv.edu

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future visa sponsorship. The University is unable to sponsor visas or green cards at this time.

The University of Charleston is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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