Assistant or Associate Vice President for Communications

The University of Virginia (UVA) seeks a dynamic and visionary Assistant or Associate Vice President for Communications to lead strategic communications across its External Relations division encompassing Communications, Development, Engagement, Gift Planning, Corporate and Foundation Relations, Operations, Principal Giving, State Government Relations, and UVA Health Development.

Reporting to the Senior Vice President for External Relations , this leader will serve as a strategic architect for how UVA tells its story to advance the Universitys philanthropic mission by amplifying a unified, compelling voice that resonates with donors, alumni, parents, friends, government partners, and key stakeholders.

A Moment of Extraordinary Momentum

Fresh off the historic success of its $6.11 billion Honor the Future campaign , UVA stands at the forefront of whats next in philanthropy and engagement. Building on this unprecedented achievement and UVAs national reputation, this role offers an opportunity to shape the next era of storytelling that inspires investment, deepens trust, and celebrates impact.

The Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate will bring both strategic vision and operational discipline , adept at weaving together storytelling, data insights, and brand strategy to advance a world-class institution. This is a chance to join UVA during a time of unmatched opportunity to translate momentum into meaning, inspire a new generation of support, and elevate the Universitys voice across every channel and constituency in a collaborative, fast-paced, and service driven environment.

The Role and Responsibilities

The Assistant / Associate Vice President for Communications will lead a comprehensive, multi-channel communications strategy that strengthens UVAs reputation among philanthropic and stakeholder audiences while advancing the goals of the External Relations division. Key responsibilities include :

Strategic Leadership

• Design and drive a bold, integrated communications strategy that propels External Relations fundraising, engagement, and reputation goals, amplifying the Universitys story of impact and innovation across audiences and channels.
• Forge strong partnerships with University Communications, the Office of the President, peers, and colleagues across Grounds to align voice, visual identity, and messaging that reinforce UVAs brand and elevate its institutional priorities.
• Serve as a trusted senior advisor and thought partner to the Senior Vice President for External Relations and divisional leaders, translating complex ideas into clear, compelling narratives that inspire action and deepen trust.
• Serve as editor-in-chief, overseeing signature External Relations publications, from campaign materials to advocacy initiatives, ensuring every message reflects UVAs excellence, authenticity, and forward momentum.

Philanthropic and Donor Communications

Digital and Creative Strategy

Reputation and Media Relations

Team Leadership

Ideal Experience and Characteristics

Competitive candidates will demonstrate a strong track record of success in strategic communications, particularly in the context of advancement, fundraising, or constituent relations.

Ideal characteristics include :

Required Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

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