The University of Massachusetts Amherst Foundation (UMAF) exists to advance the mission and highest aspirations of UMass Amherst through philanthropy, partnership, and community engagement.
Established in 2003 as an independent nonprofit organization dedicated exclusively to supporting the University, UMAF serves as the bridge between donors and the transformative work happening across one of the nation’s leading public research universities. Through alumni engagement, donor stewardship, campaign strategy, and advancement operations, the Foundation helps connect meaningful philanthropic investment with the people, programs, and discoveries shaping the future of UMass Amherst.
This is a moment of opportunity for UMAF as Accelerate: The Campaign for UMass Amherst approaches its final phase with a goal of $600 million. The Foundation is seeking an experienced advancement leader who can help sustain momentum, strengthen collaboration across a decentralized development enterprise, and position the organization for long-term success beyond the campaign. Guided by shared values of connection, courage, and curiosity, UMAF is building a culture rooted in trust, accountability, inclusion, and shared purpose.
The Opportunity
The Assistant Vice President, Development will serve as a key strategic and operational partner to the Vice President of Development and a highly visible leader across the University’s advancement ecosystem.
Overseeing multiple school- and unit-based fundraising programs, the AVP will provide leadership to chief development officers and senior fundraisers while helping align institutional priorities, strengthen systems, and ensure consistent execution across teams. This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of philanthropy at one of the country’s premier public flagship universities during a pivotal chapter in its advancement trajectory.
As a member of the Foundation’s Executive Leadership Team, the AVP will contribute to enterprise-wide strategy and decision-making while helping foster coordination between centrally based advancement functions and school-based fundraising teams. The successful candidate will bring credibility as a frontline fundraiser, experience leading within complex and decentralized organizations, and a collaborative leadership style grounded in emotional intelligence, accountability, and relationship-building.
This individual will play an important role in strengthening team culture, mentoring fundraising leaders, and guiding the Foundation through both the successful conclusion of the current campaign and the opportunities that follow.
The salary range for this position is $220,000-$250,000.
