Executive Director, Alumni Affairs & Advancement in Toronto

Victoria University is seeking an Executive Director, Alumni Affairs & Advancement to orchestrate its next era of philanthropic success. Capitalizing on the momentum of the largest fundraising campaign in the University's history, the Executive Director will design and execute an integrated advancement strategy that propels our mission forward.

In this role, the successful candidate will provide high-level strategic direction across fundraising and alumni engagement, with significant input around advancement communications and marketing, while empowering and mentoring a dedicated team of eight professionals. The Executive Director is appointed by the Board of Regents and reports directly to the President of Victoria University. As a valued and integral member of the senior administration, the Executive Director will work closely and collaboratively with the University’s leadership team to support university initiatives and priorities.

Thanks to Victoria University’s federated relationship with the University of Toronto, the Executive Director will enjoy the best of both worlds: the close-knit nature and autonomy of Vic U alongside the incredible depth and breadth of resources provided by U of T. Victoria University is frequently described as a "jewel in the crown" of U of T due to its robust financial stability, distinct historical prestige, and architectural beauty.

The distinctly different foci of Vic U’s two Colleges bring a diversity of academic programming and student bodies, which in turn provides for unique and interesting alumni engagement and advancement opportunities, created in partnership with the Principals of Victoria College and Emmanuel College. The leadership team at Victoria University works very collaboratively, and they are extremely supportive of and engaged with Alumni Affairs & Advancement activities.

Whether partnering to secure funding for the first-ever professorship dedicated to Buddhist spiritual care, collaborating on a library transformation thanks to a legacy gift, working together on mentoring and student experience programs funded by generous donors, or ensuring that hundreds of endowed bursaries and scholarships are awarded and stewarded, our advancement and alumni relations work touches every aspect of university life.

Vic U’s alumni body is highly active across professional sectors, with the largest majorities working in Business Development, Education, Media and Communication, and Community and Social Services. Victoria University alumni body boasts a legacy of prominent global leaders, literary figures, and pioneering innovators wielding tremendous impact and influence!

The Alumni Affairs & Advancement team is a high-performing group that works productively with and is respected by colleagues. The team has had record-breaking fundraising success in the past two years and is well-positioned to exceed campaign goals in both fundraising and alumni engagement. A campus master plan is currently being developed, creating a range of compelling future capital fundraising opportunities.

As Victoria University prepares for a presidential transition, there will be opportunities for Advancement to support the implementation of the University's strategic plan and align its work with emerging institutional priorities.

Victoria University offers the best of both worlds: the opportunities of one of the world’s leading research universities combined with the close-knit community, personalized learning and supportive environment of a smaller academic institution. As a federated university within the University of Toronto, Victoria University maintains its own governance and endowment while sharing U of T’s academic programs.

A recognized leader in liberal arts and theological post-secondary education since 1836, Victoria University creates an environment where students discover how to match their distinctive talents to some of the world’s most pressing issues. For more than 185 years, Victoria University in the University of Toronto has been recognized for academic excellence, intellectual leadership and an exceptional student experience provided through Victoria University’s two colleges.

Victoria College is an undergraduate college of about 4,300 students within the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Arts & Science, recognized for academic excellence, a vibrant residence community and opportunities for students to engage deeply in learning, research and leadership. Emmanuel College is a graduate multireligious college and member of the Toronto School of Theology. With about 250 students, Emmanuel College prepares leaders for ministry, public service and community engagement while advancing scholarship in theology and related disciplines.

Located in the heart of Toronto, Victoria University’s historic campus is one of Canada’s most beautiful academic settings. Its landmark architecture, libraries, residences, gardens and welcoming gathering spaces create an environment where scholarship, creativity and community flourish. Victoria University’s impact extends far beyond its campus. Its alumni include Nobel laureates, prime ministers, scientists, physicians, educators, theologians, artists, writers and public servants whose contributions have enriched Canada and the world.

Today, Victoria University continues to prepare students to think critically and contribute meaningfully to an increasingly complex world.

Work location: Victoria University at 73 Queens Park Crescent, Toronto, with attendance in person a minimum of 4 days per week.

Compensation: The target hiring range for this role is $190,000 to $240,000 plus a comprehensive benefits package and participation in the University Pension Plan.

This posting is for a continuing, full-time vacancy that will exist due to the retirement of the incumbent. Victoria University is committed to equity in access to employment and a diverse and inclusive workplace. The University encourages applications from racialized persons/persons of colour, women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. If you require accommodation during the recruitment and selection process, please let us know.