Rice University has achieved a position among America’s great research universities. 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 — indeed, in the world. To support and enhance this record of success, Rice University’s Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) Division seeks an Associate Vice President for Individual Giving (AVP).
Reporting to and working with the Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations, the Associate Vice President for Individual Giving provides leadership, evaluation, and mentoring to the individual giving program, coordinating efforts to maximize philanthropic support for Rice University. The Associate Vice President for Individual Giving is the main point of contact with campus leadership, working to develop philanthropic and fundraising strategies, managing the participation of deans and other university leaders in philanthropy, and preparing them for prospect meetings and solicitations. As a senior member of the fundraising team, this person is a member of the principal gifts team and manages a portfolio of major and principal gifts prospects capable of gifts at the $1M+ level while managing the frontline fundraising operation, which includes Annual Giving, Major Gifts, Gift Planning, and Parents fundraising programs. As a senior leader in the division, this position serves on the division’s leadership team and the campaign steering committee, aiming to maintain and improve the efficiency of Development and Alumni Relations’ work while continuing to enhance the already excellent donor experience.
The ideal candidate is a highly collaborative leader and strategic thinker who thrives in a team-oriented environment and understands the value of cross-functional partnerships in achieving institutional goals. They bring a demonstrated track record of guiding development teams through the process of setting and surpassing both annual and long-term fundraising goals, informed by data and aligned with organizational priorities. This individual excels at fostering a culture of shared success—one that emphasizes transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement. They are adept at maximizing the potential of their team by mentoring, motivating, and advocating for staff at all levels, ensuring that each team member feels empowered and supported in their professional growth. Through inclusive leadership and a commitment to collaboration, the candidate will help build a high-performing, mission-driven team that is well-positioned to advance the institution’s philanthropic vision.
Experience in higher education, particularly with one or more institutions as comprehensive and complex as Rice, is highly preferred, as is experience with an academic medical center. Direct and substantive experience in a campaign of significant size and scope is required. A bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree is preferred. Rice’s new Associate Vice President will have the opportunity to have a significant, personal impact on the University’s success.
All applications, nominations and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as two separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile.
WittKieffer is assisting Rice University in this search, which will remain open until an appointment is made.
Application materials should be submitted to WittKieffer’s candidate portal using the buttons below.
Nominations and inquiries can be directed to Mercedes Chacón Vance and Jevon Walton at [email protected].