Foundation - Associate Vice President of External Relations

Clark College Foundation, in direct support of Clark College and its mission, is currently accepting applications for a full-time exempt Associate Vice President (AVP) of External Relations position.

The AVP at the Clark College Foundation plays a key leadership role in advancing the Foundation's mission by driving strategic initiatives in alumni relations, community engagement, and communications. This role is responsible for enhancing the Foundation's visibility and impact through comprehensive engagement strategies that connect alumni, donors, and the broader community with Clark College. The AVP serves as a member of the Foundation's leadership team, providing vision and direction for the Foundation's external relations activities while managing a team of professionals.

The Clark College Foundation is deeply committed to fostering a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of our work, including our fundraising and engagement efforts. The AVP of External Relations will play a pivotal role in ensuring that these values are reflected in our alumni relations, community engagement, and communication strategies. This includes developing programs and initiatives that authentically represent and engage the diverse communities we serve, promoting inclusive practices in all external activities, and building partnerships that advance equity and access to education. The AVP will support championing these values across the Foundation and actively contributing to an environment where all voices are heard, valued, and empowered.

At Clark College Foundation, we believe anyone that has taken at least one course at Clark College is part of our alumni network, or as we more fondly call it, the Penguin Nation.

To apply, please submit your online application with resume and cover letter to: https://apply.appone.com/job/672bbf68632e4085a398af2d

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will remain open until the correct candidate is found.

At Clark College Foundation, we are driven by a shared passion to empower our community through education, opportunity, and innovation. As part of our team, you'll have the chance to directly impact the lives of students and families in Southwest Washington, creating lasting change and fostering a culture of equity and inclusion. Clark College is a top-rated community college, and by joining the Foundation, you'll be supporting an institution that's recognized for excellence in education and student success. Here, you'll collaborate with a dedicated group of professionals who are committed to creative problem-solving and bold thinking, all while being part of a respected organization that's leading the way in philanthropy and advocacy work.

We offer competitive compensation packages, a hybrid work policy that supports work-life balance, and a generous PTO allocation, including two weeks of office closures; one at the end of December and another week during the July 4th holiday. On top of that, you'll have access to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as retirement options that ensure your future is well taken care of. If you're ready to make an impact and be part of something bigger, Clark College Foundation is the place for you!

Website: https://www.clarkcollegefoundation.org/

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Community Engagement:

• Lead efforts to build and maintain strong relationships with community leaders, organizations, and key stakeholders in the Vancouver, WA area and beyond.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for the Foundation to engage with the community through events, partnerships, and collaborative projects.
• Represent the Foundation at community events, fostering positive relationships and increasing the Foundation's (and College's) visibility and influence.
• Foster friend-raising opportunities that could transform into fundraising opportunities as well.

• Develop and implement strategic alumni engagement programs that strengthen the relationship between Clark College and its alumni community.
• Oversee the creation of alumni events, communications, and volunteer opportunities that foster a strong sense of community and support for the College.
• Collaborate with other departments to integrate alumni engagement into the broader Foundation and College initiatives.
• Partner with the Development team to align alumni engagement with annual giving efforts, creating synergies that enhance fundraising opportunities and foster long-term support from alumni.

• Provide leadership and oversight for the Foundation's overall communications strategy, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission, goals, and brand identity.
• Supervise and support the Communications Manager in the development and execution of marketing materials, digital content, and press releases, ensuring they meet strategic objectives and reflect consistent messaging.
• Ensure the Foundation's communication efforts are cohesive and impactful across all channels, including social media, the magazine, and the website.
• Support the Communications Manager in implementing processes and programming that promote brand consistency and enhance the Foundation's visibility in the community.

• Serve as a member of the Foundation's leadership team, contributing to the overall strategic direction and decision-making of the organization.
• Manage and mentor a team of professionals in the areas of alumni relations, community engagement, and communications, providing guidance and support to achieve departmental goals.
• Collaborate with the Chief Executive Officer and other leadership team members to align external relations strategies with the Foundation's fundraising and advancement goals.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES:

• A combined 7-10 years of experience in alumni relations, community engagement, communications, fundraising, or a related field, with demonstrated leadership and management experience.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful engagement and communication strategies.
• Ability to think strategically and work collaboratively as part of a leadership team.
• Commitment to the mission of Clark College and the Foundation, with a deep understanding of the role of alumni and community engagement in advancing access to higher education and the role education plays in workforce development and local economic impact.

Application Process:
Required Online Application Materials:

• Clark College Foundation Online Application
• Current Resume with a minimum of three professional references
• Cover letter describing background experience and related qualifications and responsibilities of the position