Director, Foundation Board and Volunteer Experience at The Ohio State University

Director, Foundation Board and Volunteer Experience at The Ohio State University

Job Type
Full-time
Posting Date
April 18, 2019
Location of Position

Columbus, OH

Company Summary

For 144 years, The Ohio State University's campus in Columbus has been the stage for academic achievement and a laboratory for innovation. It's where friendships are forged. It's where rivalries and revelry are born.

The university's main campus is one of America's largest and most comprehensive. As Ohio's best and one of the nation's top-20 public universities, Ohio State is further recognized by a top-rated academic medical center and a premier cancer hospital and research center. As a land-grant university, Ohio State has a physical presence throughout the state, with campuses and research centers located around Ohio.

Duties and Responsibilities

Director, Foundation Board and Volunteer Experience
Advancement Strategy and Administration

Position Overview

The Director, Foundation Board and Volunteer Experience will provide vision and leadership for all activities of The Ohio State University Foundation Board of Directors and recommend and implement strategies to develop future generations of volunteer leaders. They will partner with colleagues across the Office of Advancement, including in the Ohio State University Alumni Association and in colleges and units across the university, to strengthen leadership volunteers’ relationships with the university, to build community among the Foundation Board, and leverage synergies among leadership volunteer groups. The Director cultivates relationships with individuals to inspire their ongoing and increased volunteer and philanthropic leadership.

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President, Strategy and Administration, successful candidates must enjoy working in a highly-collaborative environment and have a passion for working with volunteers; have strong organizational, business and communication skills; have the ability to leverage internal and external networks; and be focused on customer service with the ability to effectively partner with a variety of audiences. The Director oversees and manages the operations and logistics related to Foundation Board activity.

The Foundation Board of Directors adds fuel to the university’s mission and strategic priorities by guiding philanthropic endeavors and acting as ambassadors for Ohio State. The Board includes visionary leaders who have a wide range of expertise, from business to health care to community engagement, and each director brings a unique and valued perspective. Their personal generosity and commitment to the university’s growth and excellence inspires others and shapes Ohio State’s future. The Board includes 51 voting directors as well as many lifetime directors who are former directors who provided exemplary service and are invited to remain involved.

Position highlights include opportunities to accomplish the following:

Build Relationships (60%)

  • Build meaningful relationships with members of the Board.
  • Create strong partnerships with key stakeholders across campus.
  • Work closely with Advancement leaders.

Excel at Communicating (20%)

  • Stay abreast of university happenings and ensure Foundation directors are appropriately informed in real-time.
  • Increase recognition and appreciation for the value of partnerships with volunteers.
  • Convene colleagues to share information and best practices.
  • Demonstrate strong attention to detail.

Innovate (20%)

  • Create and facilitate new opportunities for volunteers to have meaningful impact.
  • Recommend and implement new strategies to enhance volunteers’ experiences.
  • Craft and implement plans to develop the next generation of volunteer leaders.

Performance Objectives

First 1-3 months

  • Meet Foundation Board members
  • Understand organizational priorities and Board essentials
  • Plan for fall Board meetings

First 3-6 months

  • Facilitate Foundation directors involvement in campaign launch
  • Connect with partners across campus

First 12 months

  • Plan and execute Committee meetings and Board meetings
  • Define strategies and plans for developing the next generation of volunteer leaders
Position Requirements

Requirements include the experience and ability to deliver the following results:

  • Strong relationships with volunteers
  • Active, engaged, inspired Board members and committees
  • New opportunities and partnerships for enhanced experiences
Required Experience


Apply Here

Why Join Ohio State Advancement Now?

In 2016, The Ohio State University concluded the most successful fundraising effort in its history, with contributions from what is believed to be the most donors ever to a higher education campaign. The But for Ohio State Campaign raised over $3 billion from more than 750,000 donors, shattering the goal of $2.5 billion. Ohio State is now six months away from the public kickoff of the next campaign which coincides with the celebration of the university’s 150th birthday. All members of Advancement are part of creating an inclusive culture that inspires an exceptionally diverse and talented team and are measured on their adherence to the following core competencies:  leadership, continuous improvement, teamwork and collaboration, and communication/interpersonal effectiveness.

More about the Foundation Board

The Foundation Board includes many of the university’s most generous supporters and committed volunteers. The Board has been actively involved in shaping the campaign and is committed and eager to support goals related to creating ambassadors for the university, increasing philanthropic support, and fostering a culture of philanthropy. Board members have welcomed opportunities to collaborate with volunteers serving across the university and they are invested in helping to develop the next generation of philanthropic and volunteer leaders.

You Need To Know

Aside from the unparalleled benefits of working for The Ohio State University and working in the diverse, smart, safe, fun and growing city of Columbus, Ohio, this opportunity will provide exceptional rewards that arise from working for a land grant institution where you will truly feel the impact of your work. Learn more here:  https://hr.osu.edu/careers/.

Closing Statement

The Ohio State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, national origin, disability status, or protected veteran status.

To find out more about University Advancement please visit:   www.advancement.osu.edu

Questions may be directed to Greg Bright, Recruiter, at bright.159@osu.edu.