Senior Project Manager - Development and Alumni Relations

Position Summary:

The Senior Project Manager serves as a strategic individual contributor within Development and Alumni Relations (DAR), leading the planning, execution, and optimization of high-visibility programs and complex cross-functional initiatives. This role provides full‑cycle project and portfolio management, including portfolio planning, business requirement identification, scope definition, milestone development, advanced data analysis, performance measurement, and executive‑level reporting to ensure alignment with institutional priorities and successful delivery of key initiatives. The Senior Project Manager partners closely with senior leaders, campus stakeholders, and external consultants to manage governance processes, proactively address risks, and drive accountability for milestone execution and outcomes aligned with priorities set by the Vice Chancellor.

About the Work Unit:

The Department of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) assists Vanderbilt University in securing the resources, both human and financial, that are required to achieve its mission and goals. The Department is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individuals and organizations whose charitable objectives are consistent with those of Vanderbilt University’s teaching and research programs.  More information can be found here:  https://www.vanderbilt.edu/dar/

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• Leads the planning, execution, and implementation of executive‑level programs and complex, cross‑functional projects for Development and Alumni Relations, ensuring successful and timely outcomes.

• Develops and oversees program and project frameworks, including overviews, governance structures, and implementation timelines.
• Tracks and maintains project data, metrics, and outcomes; assists with assessing project impact to support achievement of defined goals.

• Identifies and drives process improvements across projects and programs; proactively escalates risks and implements solutions to enhance performance.

• Develops and delivers executive‑level communications, including summaries, briefings, and reports for the DAR PMO Leader, Director of Executive Projects, and senior leadership.

• Establishes and maintains strong, collaborative relationships with campus partners and external stakeholders; actively incorporates feedback to improve program outcomes.

• Contributes to the identification, analysis, and improvement of project management processes, tools, and practices within DAR.

• Provides professional and/or technical support in the execution of day-to-day project activities.

• Conducts and directs research and analysis to inform decision‑making; prepares reports and white papers for senior leadership review. 

• Partners across the university and with external stakeholders to align resources, remove barriers, and ensure successful program and project delivery.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Work Environment:

This position will be located in the Nashville, TN area. The role will be hybrid with an expectation of being in the office one day per week or more depending on business needs. 

Supervisory Relationships:

This position is an individual contributor and does not have supervisory responsibility. This position reports administratively and functionally to the Senior Project Manager | DAR PMO Leader.

Education and Certifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience, is required.

• Human and Organizational Development (HOD) major, or similar, is preferred.

• Project management training and/or certification (such as PMP, CAPM, Six Sigma, or similar) is preferred and supports continued professional development.

Experience and Skills:

• Five (5) or more years of directly relevant experience leading or managing complex, executive‑level projects, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, is required

• Proven experience using project management software or tools to track schedules, tasks, and deliverables is required.

• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and manage multiple projects or initiatives with changing priorities and deadlines in a dynamic environment.

• Highly developed organizational and planning skills, with the ability to manage detailed execution while maintaining alignment with broader strategic objectives.

• Proven ability to prioritize effectively, manage competing demands, and consistently deliver results on time.

• Advanced project management and time management skills, including experience applying structured methodologies to complex initiatives.

• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with individuals across the university and with external partners.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly articulate information and present updates to diverse audiences.

• Demonstrated sound judgment and decision‑making skills appropriate to the scope of the role, with the ability to identify issues and escalate as needed.

• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion.

• Proficiency with office and productivity software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and other tools used for communication, analysis, and operations.

• Demonstrated ability to analyze, interpret, and present data to support project tracking, reporting, and decision‑making.

• Ability to work independently, lead initiatives, and adapt to changing priorities while maintaining focus on outcomes and organizational objectives.

Key Characteristics of a Successful Team Member in this Work Unit

• Demonstrates personal accountability by taking responsibility for both successes and setbacks, and understands the importance of trust in effective teamwork.

• Communicates proactively and transparently; shares information, transfers knowledge, seeks input, and considers feedback thoughtfully.

• Values collaboration and treats colleagues with respect, contributing to a positive and inclusive team environment.

• Strives for excellence by approaching work proactively, focusing on creative problem‑solving, welcoming new ideas, and committing to continuous learning and improvement.

• Effectively manages time, activities, and outcomes to maintain momentum, balance multiple priorities, and remain productive in a dynamic environment.