Executive Director for Strategy and Operations - University Advancement

Scheduled Hours

37.5

Position Summary

The Executive Director for Strategy and Operations is responsible for facilitating the administration of the unit senior leader’s duties and executing their strategic priorities. The position will work closely with the senior leader for Philanthropic Strategy, members of the senior leadership team, and staff throughout University Advancement to advance departmental priorities, implement new initiatives, and optimize workflow and efficiency.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Support the unit senior leader in managing the ongoing and annual planning process for the strategy vertical including: OKR’s, Operational Planning, Annual Summaries, Budgeting and Performance Management.
• Provide management and oversight for the Senior Manager, Support Services and Assistant Director for Special Projects.
• Serve as a thought partner and strategist for the unit senior leader.
• Support the unit senior leader’s responsibilities as a senior leader of University Advancement including meeting preparation and strategy.
• Provide leadership on strategic priorities and projects for areas under the unit senior leader’s purview, as assigned.
• Represent the unit senior leader in key meetings and oversee the execution of action items.
• Work closely alongside the unit senior leader for the Philanthropic Strategy team to facilitate the strategy and execution of the division.
• Work in partnership with the Executive Assistant to keep projects and processes flowing smoothly and on track.
• Serve as the liaison between the unit senior leader and staff to improve workflow, secure answers and approvals in a timely manner, and ensure fulfillment on projects for which the unit senior leader is integral. Provide leadership in enhancing communication and facilitating resolutions surrounding departmental issues and concerns.
• Facilitate and coordinate the high-level activities of the National Councils across University Advancement.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the unit senior leader.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree.
• Seven to ten years of major gift experience.
• Demonstrated ability to design and implement effective cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for individual giving.
• Strategic, operational, and motivational skills, making for a productive and effective department.
• Deep appreciation for and an ability to successfully articulate the mission and aspirations of Washington University.
• Strong track record in helping plan, coordinate, and manage complex projects and campaigns.
• Ability to listen carefully, learn quickly, and work effectively in a complex organization. Superior communication and writing skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills: demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with high-net-worth individuals.
• Desire and ability to work collaboratively with colleagues across development offices. Honesty, integrity, enthusiasm, and perspective; a very strong work ethic, supported by commitment and follow through.
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Minimum of eight years of related experience.
  
  

Grade

G00

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.