Description
The University of Virginia (UVA) seeks a dynamic and visionary Assistant or Associate Vice President for Communications to lead strategic communications across its External Relations division encompassing Communications, Development, Engagement, Gift Planning, Corporate and Foundation Relations, Operations, Principal Giving, State Government Relations, and UVA Health Development.
Reporting to the Senior Vice President for External Relations, this leader will serve as a strategic architect for how UVA tells its story to advance the University’s philanthropic mission by amplifying a unified, compelling voice that resonates with donors, alumni, parents, friends, government partners, and key stakeholders.
A Moment of Extraordinary Momentum
Fresh off the historic success of its $6.11 billion “Honor the Future” campaign, UVA stands at the forefront of what’s next in philanthropy and engagement. Building on this unprecedented achievement and UVA’s national reputation, this role offers an opportunity to shape the next era of storytelling that inspires investment, deepens trust, and celebrates impact.
The Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate will bring both strategic vision and operational discipline, adept at weaving together storytelling, data insights, and brand strategy to advance a world-class institution. This is a chance to join UVA during a time of unmatched opportunity to translate momentum into meaning, inspire a new generation of support, and elevate the University’s voice across every channel and constituency in a collaborative, fast-paced, and service driven environment.
The Role and Responsibilities
The Assistant/Associate Vice President for Communications will lead a comprehensive, multi-channel communications strategy that strengthens UVA’s reputation among philanthropic and stakeholder audiences while advancing the goals of the External Relations division. Key responsibilities include:
Strategic Leadership
Design and drive a bold, integrated communications strategy that propels External Relations’ fundraising, engagement, and reputation goals, amplifying the University’s story of impact and innovation across audiences and channels.
Forge strong partnerships with University Communications, the Office of the President, peers, and colleagues across Grounds to align voice, visual identity, and messaging that reinforce UVA’s brand and elevate its institutional priorities.
Serve as a trusted senior advisor and thought partner to the Senior Vice President for External Relations and divisional leaders, translating complex ideas into clear, compelling narratives that inspire action and deepen trust.
Serve as editor-in-chief, overseeing signature External Relations publications, from campaign materials to advocacy initiatives, ensuring every message reflects UVA’s excellence, authenticity, and forward momentum.
Philanthropic and Donor Communications
Oversee bold, holistic campaign communications, including message development, case statements, and campaign reports that capture UVA’s vision, impact, and inspire philanthropy.
Shape and guide compelling content and creative collateral that brings fundraising priorities to life, ensuring every story, image, and design reflects UVA’s distinct brand and voice.
Oversee the development of compelling, donor-centric fundraising proposals and case materials for donor solicitations that align with UVA’s strategic priorities and inspire philanthropic support.
Collaborate closely with External Relations senior leaders to align messaging, and deliver a seamless, audience-focused experience across all platforms.
Digital and Creative Strategy
Direct content strategy for External Relations website and related microsites.
Develop the strategic direction for compelling multimedia, print, videography, digital images, and content that engages key audiences and advances fundraising and engagement outcomes.
Ensure data-informed communications decisions through ongoing analysis of audience insights, communication metrics, and digital performance.
Collaborate with External Relations area senior leaders on social media strategy.
Reputation and Media Relations
Develop and deliver a comprehensive media (earned and paid) strategy for External Relations. Support strategic visibility for donors, volunteers, and institutional leaders in local, national, and trade media.
Develop and execute strategies to elevate External Relations’ presence, both locally and nationally.
Team Leadership
Lead, mentor, and inspire a high-performing team of writers, editors, designers, and digital specialists.
Cultivate a culture of innovation, collaboration, creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Build relationships across External Relations and the broader University to achieve mutual goals.
Ideal Experience and Characteristics
Competitive candidates will demonstrate a strong track record of success in strategic communications, particularly in the context of advancement, fundraising, or constituent relations.
Ideal characteristics include:
Significant experience in communications leadership roles, preferably within higher education, nonprofit advancement, or state relations.
Proven ability to develop and execute effective, compelling, and holistic strategic communications plans.
Ability to manage ambiguity and be successful in a rapidly changing environment.
Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills tailored to External Relations audiences.
Knowledge of emerging trends in the communication field.
Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
Ability to lead and inspire teams in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.
High emotional intelligence, integrity, and professionalism.
Ability to work under pressure, handle multiple priorities, and manage time sensitive requests, at times in high-pressure situations.
About the University of Virginia
Founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia stands as one of the nation’s premier public institutions, renowned for its historic foundations, academic rigor, and vibrant community. Consistently ranked among the top public universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, UVA is celebrated for its education curriculum and a student experience that blends intellectual challenge with purpose and connection.
Home to more than 27,000 students and a strong network of 285,000 alumni worldwide, UVA fosters a dynamic culture of discovery and service. Its faculty includes Nobel laureates, MacArthur Fellows, and national academy members, all advancing knowledge and innovation with global impact.
The University’s culture is grounded in honor, integrity, trust, and respect. Faculty and staff thrive in a collaborative, mission-driven environment that empowers them to make meaningful contributions, grow professionally, and shape the future of higher education.
Living in Charlottesville, Virginia
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville offers a remarkable blend of professional opportunity, natural beauty, and community spirit. Consistently ranked among the best places to live in America, Charlottesville attracts people who want to do meaningful work while enjoying a fulfilling lifestyle.
Beyond the workplace, Charlottesville’s vibrant downtown, acclaimed restaurants, and award-winning wineries create an exceptional quality of life. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy quick access to hiking, biking, and scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, while cultural highlights such as the Paramount Theater, IX Art Park, and University of Virginia festivals, museums and theatre offer year-round inspiration.
With excellent schools, leading healthcare, and easy connections to Washington, D.C. and Richmond, Charlottesville offers the rare combination of small-town charm and world-class opportunity. For those seeking to make a difference - and make a life - Charlottesville is an extraordinary place to call home.
Physical Demands
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job may occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.
Position Type & Work Location
This is an exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits.
This is a restricted position, which is dependent on funding and is contingent upon funding availability.
UVA External Relations offers a flexible and hybrid workplace. All team members must have access to and maintain a secure home office environment with high-speed internet service and be able to work collaboratively with others using a variety of technologies and tools. Depending on the type of position and work performed, or as deemed by the manager, some positions may be required to work intermittently in our shared office space located in Charlottesville, Virginia. This hybrid position can be worked remotely on occasion, although frequent in-person work in our office building, on UVA Grounds, or at event venues is required. The successful candidate will live within driving distance of Charlottesville, Virginia.
About UVA and the Community
To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA.
Application Timeline
Application review will begin after November 3, 2025.
Contact
For additional information about the position, please contact April Sibiski, Director of Staff Success, at nbu2ag@virginia.edu.
For questions about the application process, please contact Jon Freeman, jf2sw@virginia.edu.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.
Requirements
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree.
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in strategic communications, preferably in higher education, nonprofit advancement, or complex organization that requires collaboration with both internal and external partners.
Experience with donor communications and campaign messaging.
Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to work across departments and with senior leadership, as well as external constituencies including donors, parents, foundation representatives, professional organizations, and other external agencies.
Proficiency in digital communications tools, content management systems, and analytics platforms.
Preferred Qualifications
Advanced degree (master’s or equivalent).
Experience supporting capital campaigns and principal gift communications.
Familiarity with UVA’s culture, values, and strategic priorities.
