PRESS RELEASES

Bryant Group Selected to Lead Search for Executive Director for Annual Philanthropy for the University of Washington

Dallas-based executive search and talent development firm Bryant Group, has been selected to lead the search for the Executive Director for Annual Philanthropy for the University of Washington. Sarah Hempen, Vice President of Search, is spearheading the assignment for the search firm.

“We are looking for a people-first leader who understands and has a passion for public higher education; is skilled in segmentation with overlapping markets, building donor pipeline experiences; and is an expert at collaboration within a complex environment. This is an opportunity to build an annual philanthropy program with a first-class organization comprised of dedicated colleagues. The successful candidate will be looked to as a voice at the highest levels, benefit from existing partnerships with marketing and have the full support of the development leadership,” said Stephanie Doyle-Scroggs, Associate Vice President of Development Programs and Strategy at University of Washington.

The successful candidate is a professional who has excelled in a data-driven, analytical, integrated program, and should have experience delivering cutting edge new technologies and strategies aimed at identification, engagement, solicitation and stewardship. Familiarity with enterprise marketing software, a people-first leadership approach and the ability to guide change in partnership with colleagues are all desired in the Executive Director. This role requires extensive experience working effectively and collaboratively with multiple stakeholders in support of shared goals and objectives within a complex, matrixed organization.

The Executive Director for Annual Philanthropy will grow the University’s base of private support both by acquiring and retaining donors and by creating a pipeline for major giving through compelling engagement and stewardship opportunities within The President’s Circle and other giving clubs.

Key qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in institutional development and fundraising that includes annual philanthropy. The successful candidate must have experience with complex market segmentation strategies; developing, supervising and leading a team within a complex, matrixed organization; working effectively with multiple stakeholders in support of shared goals and objectives; and developing and executing digital engagement strategies targeting highly segmented audiences.

About University of Washington

Since its founding in 1861, the University of Washington (UW) has been a hub for learning, innovation, problem solving and community building. Driven by a mission to serve the greater good, UW students, faculty and staff tackle today’s most pressing challenges with courage and creativity, making a difference across Washington state — and around the world. Committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff, the UW will honor experiences, perspectives and unique identity. Together, the community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable and welcoming.

Advancing Great Leadership

Bryant Group, based in Irving, Texas, and with consultants located across the United States, specializes in executive search and leadership consulting for higher education, healthcare and nonprofits, with an emphasis on advancement leaders and other executives. In 1988, Bryant Group founder, Chris Bryant, started one of the country’s first search firms specializing in philanthropy recruitment. Now under the leadership of CEO Sally Bryant, the woman-owned firm focuses on advancing great leadership. Bryant Group has impacted more than 10,000 leaders and served more than 275 organizations.