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Vanderbilt University’s Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) is seeking a highly organized, self-motivated, creative and collaborative communications professional and project manager to serve as the Associate Director of Development Initiatives, DAR Communications. This position contributes project management expertise and delivery of high-quality communication tools and collateral in support of Vanderbilt’s mission and goals.

This role requires a skilled communications project manager who is able to contribute to success of the Development Communications team. The Associate Director must be able to coordinate the efforts of staff across departments and units, anticipate challenges, creatively problem solve, keep colleagues on task and projects on track, and deliver results on time. This person should have proven experience as a team player and creative problem solver who can manage multiple projects simultaneously in a complex environment.

About the Work Unit:

Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) assists Vanderbilt University in securing the resources, both human and financial, that are required to achieve its mission and goals. DAR is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individuals and organizations whose charitable objectives are consistent with those of Vanderbilt University’s teaching and research programs. You can visit our website for more information: https://www.vanderbilt.edu/dar/

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• In close collaboration with Development Communications and other DAR team members, efficiently and effectively project manage activities including: development of print and digital collateral for key initiatives such as the Dare to Grow fundraising campaign, Opportunity Vanderbilt, residential colleges and emerging new opportunities; website updates; event invitations; videos; and select Stewardship and Planned Giving initiatives.

• Working closely with Development Communications colleagues, serve as an additional liaison

with key campus partners including MarComm and external resources to facilitate execution of

projects as needed.

• For select, large-scale projects, work with Development Communications colleagues to route project collateral to the appropriate stakeholders for review and approval.

• Track and report metrics of communications and make appropriate recommendations based on findings.

• Evaluate, develop and recommend improvements to processes to maximize effectiveness of project management and execution.

• Serve as backup on internal communications, broadcast email and online giving platform as needed.

• Serve as the Development Communications team’s resource for our project management system (currently Wrike), including development and training on new processes and forms.

• Bring forward industry best practices and a willingness to explore new technologies.

• Responsibly manage university resources.

• Practice and uphold departmental and institutional policies regarding confidential information.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Relationships:

This position reports administratively to the Assistant Vice Chancellor of Development Communications.

Education and Certifications

• A bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent, is necessary.

• Project management certification is a plus.

Experience and Skills:

• Four years of relevant experience, or the equivalent, is necessary.

• A background working in the communications field is required.

• A minimum of three years of project management experience is essential, with additional experience

preferred.

• Prior experience working on comprehensive fundraising campaigns is a plus.

• Meticulous attention to detail and accuracy, as well as superior organizational skills.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Proficiency in office software tools and experience with relevant project management tools.

• Ability to work independently, collaborate effectively, take initiative, manage multiple projects

simultaneously, problem solve, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.

• Ability to learn new concepts quickly and adeptly.

• Demonstrated ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential information.

• Values the importance of equity as an organizational operating principle and is committed to equity,

diversity, and inclusion.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education. Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.