President - UWM Foundation

Company: Spano Pratt, LLC
Location: Milwaukee
Posted on: May 3, 2025

Job Description:

OverviewAre you a visionary leader ready to shape the trajectory of one of Wisconsin's most dynamic and transformative institutions? The UWM Foundation is seeking its next President who will be a driven, innovative professional who will lead with purpose and passion to drive meaningful impact across the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee community and beyond.UWM Foundation Mission: Support the educational, literary and scientific endeavors of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee by receiving, managing and distributing gifts to benefit the University's students, faculty, programs and community. The UWM Foundation also provides leadership, oversight and direction to its affiliated corporations, the UWM Real Estate Foundation, UWM Research Foundation and the UWM Alumni Association.These corporations create new University facilities, support student life, research, academics and regional economic development, and provide new sources of revenue from research commercialization and entrepreneurial activities.ResponsibilitiesPOSITION OVERVIEW The UWM Foundation is more than a fundraising entity; it is a dynamic, forward-thinking organization dedicated to advancing the University's mission and ensuring its success for future generations. We are searching for a President who shares our passion for UWM's transformative impact and who can lead with vision, innovation, and a deep commitment to the University and to Milwaukee.This is an unparalleled opportunity to lead an organization with a rich legacy, an empowered board, and a community of donors and partners committed to making UWM a beacon of excellence for Milwaukee and beyond. As President of the UWM Foundation, you will guide an organization that serves as the backbone of opportunity, progress, and excellence at UWM. Your leadership will ensure the Foundation's daily operations align with its ambitious mission and strategic vision, positioning the University as a hub of innovation, entrepreneurship, education, and community empowerment.This role is more than management, it's about building bridges. As the primary connection between the Board of Directors and the University, as well as its key affiliate organizations, the UWM Real Estate Foundation, UWM Research Foundation, Alumni Association, and the Board of Visitors, you will foster collaboration that amplifies UWM's impact on students, alumni, and the greater Milwaukee region.This role is ideal for a leader who thrives in complexity, sees opportunity in challenges, and is committed to making a difference in partnership with the Chancellor and the Vice Chancellor of Advancement. Join the UWM Foundation and play a vital role in shaping the next chapter of a university that empowers thousands of students, fuels groundbreaking research, and enriches Milwaukee's cultural and economic vitality.QualificationsQUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCEEducation

• A bachelor's degree in a field that sharpens your ability in nonprofit administration or management, providing the backbone for your strategic thinking and operational excellence.
• A commitment to lifelong learning, proven through professional development and continuing education in nonprofit leadership, ensuring you stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape.Experience
• Nonprofit Leadership: At least 7 years of considerable experience leading and managing nonprofit organizations, where your strategic direction has led to measurable results and sustainable growth.
• Program Excellence: A history of successful planning, managing, and executing impactful events and programs that inspire engagement and deliver meaningful outcomes.
• Boardroom Savvy: Proven ability in organizing and energizing nonprofit boards, ensuring productive relationships, governance, and strategic alignment.
• Master Connector: Proven ability to build and sustain impactful relationships across the public, private, and governmental sectors.COMPETENCIES
• Inspirational Executive Leadership: Experience leading complex organizations, preferably in higher education or a comparable professional environment.
• Strategic Leadership: Develops strategies and problem solves to achieve organizational goals, in close partnership with the Chancellor and the Vice Chancellor of Advancement.
• Transformational Leadership: Shows ability to lead transformative changes while keeping alignment with the Foundation's mission in service to the university.
• Public Speaking & Media Relations: Functions as the face and spokesperson of the Foundation.
• Donor Cultivation & Gift Solicitation: In partnership with the Advancement team, cultivates long-term donor relationships and secures significant gifts.PERSONAL ATTRIBUTESAs the next UWM Foundation President, you will be a transformational leader with emotional intelligence, vision, and a strong connector to the Milwaukee community. With a passion for urban education and philanthropy, you excel in building relationships with key stakeholders, including business leaders, philanthropic organizations, and academic partners.TOTAL REWARDSYou will receive highly competitive rewards, offered and designed to recognize your contributions and support your growth, including a competitive compensation range of $250,000 - $300,000, robust benefits, and unique opportunities to make an impact.NOMINATION & APPLICATION PROCESSThe position will remain open until it is filled. Confidential inquiries, nominations, and questions concerning this search may be sent by email. To be considered for this opportunity, please send your resume with cover letter to: Shelly Beaver, Executive Search Consultant sbeaver@spanopratt.com OR Lindsey Kriete, Practice Director lkriete@spanopratt.com
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