Vice President of Advancement

Location: Sterling, Virginia (Hybrid/Flexible Work Schedule Available) Reports to: President Supervises: Development Team, including Alumni relations Status: Full-time, Exempt Find out if this opportunity is a good fit by reading all of the information that follows below. About Divine Mercy University Divine Mercy University (DMU), located in Northern Virginia, is a Catholic graduate institution founded and sponsored by the Legionaries of Christ, a religious congregation of the Catholic Church. The University is committed to forming professionals who integrate the Catholic-Christian vision of the human person with the psychological sciences and counseling practices. With academic excellence and fidelity to the Church’s Magisterium, DMU exists to respond to the mental health crisis with compassion, competence, and faith. Position Summary DMU seeks a dynamic, visionary Vice President of Advancement to lead and expand its fundraising efforts. This strategic role will focus on building long-term sustainability through major gifts, growing the endowment, launching endowed chairs, and cultivating a strong donor community grounded in the University’s mission. The Vice President of Advancement will work closely with the President and leadership team to articulate DMU's mission to donors and prospects. This individual will manage and coach a team of development professionals, currently three, fostering a culture of excellence, mission alignment, and strategic growth. Key Responsibilities Strategic Fundraising & Vision Lead the creation and execution of a comprehensive fundraising strategy to secure major gifts, grow the endowment, and support campaign initiatives. Personally cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of major gift donors, foundations, and strategic partners. Launch and support initiatives to establish endowed chairs and long-term funding priorities. Mission-Driven Storytelling & Donor Engagement Serve as a passionate and articulate ambassador of DMU’s mission Partner with University leadership and other departments to communicate DMU’s spiritual and academic vision to benefactors. Represent DMU at donor events, speaking engagements, and strategic gatherings. Team Leadership & Coaching Supervise, coach, and inspire a team of development staff in areas including annual giving, donor and alumni relations, and advancement services. Set clear goals, provide mentorship, and foster professional development and performance excellence. Promote a collaborative team culture that integrates faith, service, and accountability. Donor Base Development & Systems Management Build a pipeline of new donors while strengthening relationships with current supporters. Utilize data and CRM systems to track and enhance donor engagement and stewardship. Work with the President and Board on identifying fundraising priorities and potential campaign initiatives. Qualifications Practicing Catholic with a strong understanding of and commitment to the mission of the Church and DMU. Minimum of 8–10 years of successful fundraising experience, with significant experience in major and planned gifts. Proven leadership experience in coaching and managing a team toward ambitious goals. Strategic, goal-oriented, and collaborative leadership style. Excellent communication skills and a compelling storyteller. Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree or CFRE preferred. Why Join DMU? This is a unique opportunity to help build a Catholic institution that forms the next generation of mental health professionals who bring healing to the world. The Director of Development will have a key role in shaping the future of Divine Mercy University while working in collaboration with the Legionaries of Christ and other mission-aligned partners.