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Vanderbilt University Medical Center · 22 hours ago

Director of Community Development

Nashville Metro

Full-time

Onsite

Lead/Staff, Director/Executive

3+ years exp

Vanderbilt University Medical Center is a leading institution in healthcare, committed to changing the world through teaching, discovery, and patient care. The Director of Community Development will lead special event fundraising activities, collaborate with community partners, and work to amplify awareness of VUMC’s mission while managing a portfolio of fundraising events.

Cosmetic SurgeryEducationHealth CareMedicalUniversities

Responsibilities

Work with the development leaders to establish measurable goals and objectives aligned with established funding priorities of VUMC

Manage and grow a portfolio of third-party and signature event partnerships to increase revenue and brand visibility for VUMC

Lead or support all aspects of multiple events—including several that generate $100,000+ each—covering planning, budgets, timelines, vendors, volunteers, day‑of execution, and post-event analysis

Advise event organizers on best practices and ensure appropriate VUMC brand positioning and mission alignment

Develop and execute strategic fundraising and stewardship plans to strengthen donor relationships, loyalty, and commitment to VUMC

Partner with Corporate and Foundation Relations team members to identify, cultivate, and secure special event sponsorships with corporate donors, and ensure fulfillment of sponsor benefits

Represent VUMC at events and prepare key leaders for event attendance; provide briefings and relay key messages about institutional priorities in written and oral communication

In partnership with Development’s Strategic Communications team, manage logistics for public-facing activities such as check presentations or media events, involving VUMC and/or VUMC Development leadership, and staff from Strategic Marketing or News & Communications as appropriate

In coordination with Development Finance, build and manage event budgets; track revenue and expenses; ensure timely reconciliation and reporting

In coordination with the Community Development Program Manager, maintain accurate donor and event records and ensure compliance with community event guidelines

When appropriate, qualify and refer event donors to Major Gifts to deepen and strengthen their relationship with VUMC

Support the overall goals of the major gift team and VUMC Development

Travel as required

Qualification

Healthcare fundraisingEvent managementMajor gifts experienceDonor relationship managementInterpersonal skills

Required

Bachelor's Degree and 3 years of experience

Preferred

Healthcare fundraising experience preferred

Three to five years of relevant experience working for an academic medical center on major gifts from individuals and families preferred

Experience managing a portfolio of prospects to support and grow major gift activity for institutional priorities preferred

Experience overseeing the tracking of major gift prospects through the cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship cycle by reviewing timely and appropriate moves on donor/prospects

Excellent judgment and sensitivity to interpersonal and organizational dynamics preferred

Strong interpersonal skills and ability to maintain solid working relationships with development colleagues, faculty, staff, and leaders preferred