Assistant Vice President for Alumnae Relations and Global Engagement | Wellesley College - Military Veterans

Position Summary

The Assistant Vice President for Alumnae Relations and Global Engagement is a visionary leader with a global perspective who will lead one of the worlds strongest networks of women. Reporting to the Vice President of Communications, Public Affairs and Global Engagement, the person in this role will work with a range of campus partners including development, career education, admission, among others.

Having recently completed a historic merger with the College, Wellesley is looking for a leader who is able to build on the momentum of this change to strengthen relationships with alumnae in ways that connect them to the college and to each other in support of institutional priorities.

The person in this role will be a strong collaborator and relationship-builder who will help shape a strategic vision for alumnae engagement, while executing a number of existing programs with the WCAA as well as new initiatives such as the Wagner Centers for the Wellesley in the World, the upcoming comprehensive campaign and the 150th celebration. She/he will measure her/his own success and that of the WCAA team by demonstrating the support of alumnae in advancement of the Colleges goals and the level of engagement of alumnae with Wellesley.

Major Responsibilities

Effectively lead the Alumnae Association in ways that connect alumnae to each other and to the college and support major college priorities.

Manage the operations of the Association with 12 office staff and an annual operating budget of $2+ million. Maintain an effective working relationship with a volunteer alumnae Board that advises the AVP on all alumnae matters.

Shape a vision for alumnae relations at Wellesley that reflects both the aspirations of alumnae and the needs of the college.

Represent the College at events on-campus, across the country and around the world using public speaking and listening skills to both share information and hear feedback.

Further develop an integrated partnership to support advancement with the VP of Development, VP for Communications, Public Affairs and Global Engagement and Associate Provost and Executive Director of Career Education.

Play a major role in building and supporting alumnae engagement strategies for major institutional milestones and initiatives such as the 150th celebration; comprehensive funding campaigns; and major events related to the Wagner Centers for Wellesley in the World.

Create and maintain a pro-active collaborative and effective working relationship with the President, members of Senior Leadership, and administrative department heads, especially Library and Technical Services, and Physical Education, Recreation and Athletics.

Work closely with the VP for Communications, Public Affairs and Global Engagement and the Editor of Wellesley Magazine to optimize alumnae communications from Wellesley and ensure that the goals of the WCCA and magazine are closely aligned.

Officially represent the alumnae throughout the College, serving on various committees such as Administrative Council, Academic Council and others, while conveying the alumnae perspective.

Prepare an annual budget for submission.

Manage work of Alumnae Office staff with classes, clubs, and groups, including events such as Reunion, various alumnae awards, and virtual programing

Oversee efforts of a large and active force of alumnae volunteers across the country and around the world, leveraging those resources and continuing to strengthen its network and volunteer-driven initiatives. Regional, US, and global travel expected.(20-25% of time)

Share the work of the Alumnae Office and all specific matters under consideration to the advisory board of the WCAA. Facilitate board knowledge of wider College activities and initiatives.

Maintain a customer service model that sets reasonable expectations while maintaining positive alumnae relationships with the College

Serve ex officio on all WCAA committees.

Organizational Relationships

Reports to the Vice President for Communications, Public Affairs and Global Engagement.

Candidate Specification: Key Selection Criteria

The Assistant Vice President of Alumnae Affairs and Global Engagement will possess a level of professional maturity and gravitas that allows the successful candidate to move fluidly between being a strategic advisor and thought partner to volunteer leadership with alumnae all over the world, the President of the College, the Presidents senior administrative team and the wider campus community, while delivering the detail-oriented operational and administrative work of her/his team. In addition, the candidate will have a track record that includes:

A Wellesley degree preferred.

An advanced degree preferred.

At least 10 years of work experience with at least five years of progressive leadership responsibility in higher education, advancement or constituent/member engagement.

Ability to provide a strategic vision and long-range planning and prioritization within a complex and fast-moving environment, and competing demands.

Proven resourcefulness with the ability to manage effectively and creatively with limited resources.

Proven ability to successfully navigate a complex and matrixed organization.

Extensive staff management and team development experience.

Demonstrated ability to optimize operational effectiveness.

Financial acumen and budgeting skills. Experience with pressures of fiscal realities and agility within constraints.

Ability to gain consensus and communicate effectively, in written and verbal form, with all constituencies and levels of the organization.

Relevant experience with information systems, technology and social media; experience in the selection and implementation of new technology systems preferred.

Track record of using metrics and benchmarking to measure performance and outcomes.

Executive presence with proven leadership success across environments with diverse constituent groups in a consultative and collaborative environment.

Experience in higher education, a membership organization, consulting, events management and/or marketing may be beneficial.

Demonstrated commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion.

Personal Qualities

Strategic and visionary leader with ability to drive transformation and innovation; engage staff and encourage collaboration with peers, and motivate volunteers of all ages and varying interests and professions.

An innate collaborator and relationship-builder with high emotional intelligence, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Charismatic, unflappable, and resilient, with a sense of humor and ability to work with multiple styles with an open-minded, flexible approach.

Company Description

Wellesleys mission is to provide an excellent liberal arts education to women who will make a difference in the world. We advance our mission by working together as a communityfaculty, students, staff, and alumnae.

Embark on a fulfilling career journey at Wellesley College, where we prioritize your well-being and professional growth. As a valued member of our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive array of benefits and resources designed to enhance both your work-life balance and long-term success.

Competitive Compensation: Experience competitive wages ensuring your dedication is recognized and rewarded.

Exceptional Benefits Package: Access a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision and pre-tax saving benefits, life insurance, disability coverage, and more to safeguard your health and that of your loved ones.

Commuting and Transportation: Enjoy the convenience of free parking on our picturesque campus, easily accessible from major roadways. We are also accessible via the MBTA commuter rail.

Paid Time Off: Take advantage of paid vacations, personal days, sick time, and holidays to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life harmony.

Retirement Savings: Plan for the future with our retirement savings plan. Wellesley College contributes up to 10.5% towards your 403(b) plan for eligible employees

Work/Life and Wellness: A hybrid work environment for select positions (additional details will be provided during the interview process), caregiving support through Wellthy, legal plan insurance, pet insurance discount and a variety of other resources including retirement planning, free onsite and virtual fitness classes and access to cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

Professional Development: Enhance your skills and explore growth opportunities through continuing training and pathways for growth within our supportive environment.

Tuition and Education Benefits: Invest in your education with tuition benefits, and access resources to navigate student loan forgiveness, reinforcing our commitment to your ongoing learning.

Campus Privileges: Enjoy free use of our state-of-the-art athletic and fitness facilities with onsite fitness classes, Library resources, and seize opportunities to attend diverse campus events that contribute to a vibrant community.

Apply today and take your first step toward a rewarding career with Wellesley College where your unique strengths and success are celebrated as part of our shared commitment to inclusivity!