The University of Oklahoma (OU) is a comprehensive research university located across three campuses: the flagship in Norman; the Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City; and the Tulsa campus. Designation by the Carnegie Foundation as a Highest Research Activity institution, places OU in the highest tier of comprehensive research universities in the nation. The Stephenson Cancer Center, established in 2001, was NCI-designated in 2018. OU’s research enterprise features award-winning and nationally and internationally recognized faculty, multidisciplinary research centers, scholarly publications, and acclaimed performances at venues throughout the world. OU’s outstanding tradition in athletics brings an exciting vitality to the Norman campus and across all sports claiming 38 total national titles. OU is best known for football and is king in the modern era of college football (1946-present). Since the end of World War II, the Sooners have more victories than any other school and the second-best winning percentage.
The Opportunity
With new university leadership, an ambitious strategic plan, and the recent decision to move the administration of Advancement from the University to the University of Oklahoma Foundation, OU is at an inflection point in its history. To seize these opportunities and ensure for a successful future, OU seeks a Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer (VP/CAO) to lead and build upon its fundraising efforts, bringing it to new heights and incorporating industry best practices and innovative approaches to create a comprehensive and sustainable best-in-class Advancement operation. The successful candidate will be a seasoned leader and manager with experience in an institution of similar complexity and a deep understanding of and appreciation for public higher education. They will have demonstrated success in and a commitment to creating and promoting a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace environment.
Previous experience soliciting principal/transformational gifts and leading a highly effective fundraising organization is required. Serving as the visionary leader, the VP/CAO will be a person of integrity, both trusting and trustworthy, and will be dedicated to the mission and values of OU.
