Tennessee State University Foundation
Executive Director Position Announcement
Salary: $130,000–$150,000 annually
Reports To: Tennessee State University Foundation Board of Directors
Lead the Future of Tennessee State University
The Tennessee State University Foundation seeks a dynamic, visionary, and mission-driven Executive Director to serve as the Foundation's chief executive officer and lead one of the nation's premier public HBCU foundations into its next era of growth and impact. Working closely with the Foundation Board of Directors, University leadership, alumni, donors, corporate partners, and community stakeholders, the Executive Director will strengthen the Foundation's capacity to support Tennessee State University's students, faculty, programs, and long-term strategic priorities.
Position Summary
The Executive Director provides executive leadership for all Foundation operations and serves as the primary liaison between the Foundation Board, University leadership, alumni, donors, corporations, foundations, and community stakeholders. The Executive Director is responsible for developing and executing the Foundation's strategic vision while ensuring the highest standards of governance, accountability, transparency, and fiduciary responsibility.
Strategic Leadership & Board Partnership
- Serve as the chief executive officer of the Tennessee State University Foundation.
- Partner with the Foundation Board to develop and execute strategic priorities.
- Implement Board-approved initiatives while ensuring compliance with Foundation bylaws and fiduciary responsibilities.
- Serve as the principal liaison between the Foundation Board and University administration.
- Represent the Foundation with alumni, donors, corporations, foundations, and community leaders.
Fundraising & Philanthropic DevelopmentLead annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, grants, sponsorships, and capital campaigns.
- Cultivate, solicit, and steward individual, corporate, and foundation donors.
- Expand the Foundation's donor pipeline through innovative fundraising strategies.
- Build meaningful relationships with alumni and philanthropic partners.
- Financial Stewardship & Foundation Operations
- Oversee budgeting, accounting, audits, investments, and financial reporting.
- Ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards and applicable laws.
- Partner with the Finance and Audit Committees to maintain strong internal controls.
Board Governance
- Support the Board and standing committees through meeting preparation and implementation of Board directives.
- Prepare agendas, reports, and strategic recommendations.
- Facilitate Board orientation and governance best practices.
- Leadership & Organizational Development
- Recruit, mentor, and retain a high-performing Foundation staff.
- Develop policies, KPIs, and operational procedures.
- Implement technology solutions that enhance donor management and reporting.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred.
- Minimum five years of executive leadership experience in nonprofit, higher education advancement, or philanthropy.
- Demonstrated success in fundraising and donor development.
- Experience working with Boards of Directors.
- Strong financial management, communication, and strategic planning skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree in Business, Public Administration, Higher Education, Nonprofit Management, or related field.
- Experience with HBCUs or university foundations.
- Experience with endowments and donor CRM systems.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary: $130,000–$150,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications.
- Comprehensive health insurance.
- Retirement plan.
- Paid holidays and vacation.
- Professional development opportunities.
Application Process
- Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For best consideration, applicants are encouraged to submit all required materials by the published application deadline.
- Applicants must submit: (1) Cover Letter; (2) Current Curriculum Vitae (CV) or professional résumé; (3) Title Page including full name, mailing address, telephone number, email address, and professional credentials; (4) Three (3) professional reference letters addressing executive leadership, fundraising, governance, and organizational impact.
- Application materials should be submitted as a single PDF in the order listed above.
- The Foundation reserves the right to conduct reference checks, credential verification, and background investigations. Finalists may be asked to participate in multiple interviews and present their vision for the Foundation.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The Tennessee State University Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, organizational need, and commitment to the Foundation's mission.
Pay: $120,000.00 - $145,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person
