Vanderbilt University is seeking a dynamic, creative and highly collaborative individual for a new position – Senior Director of Influencer and Celebrity Engagement. This position will be responsible for developing and implementing Vanderbilt University's celebrity and influencer engagement program in collaboration with key leaders and offices across the university. The role will lead the strategy, execution, and measurement of all activities related to cultivating relationships with high-profile celebrities and influencers. Its goal will be to match celebrity/influencer interests with university priorities to create unique experiences that broaden and deepen Vanderbilt’s brand and reputation.

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. You can find more information at https://www.vanderbilt.edu/dar/

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy for Vanderbilt's celebrity and influencer engagement, including identifying target individuals, facilitating connections, building marquee events, and managing ongoing relationships in collaboration with leaders and teams from across the university.

Identify and cultivate relationships with high-profile celebrities, influencers, and public figures whose interests and passions align with the university's strengths and initiatives. Ideate and produce marquee events and activations with celebrities and influencers in close partnership with University Signature Events that showcase Vanderbilt's strengths and expand its reputation and brand. Lead collaborative work with agencies as needed to facilitate events and activations. Serve as the primary point of contact at the university for celebrity and influencer engagement. Shape and negotiate paid engagements/endorsements and ambassadorships in partnership with the Vanderbilt Procurement and General Counsel offices. Partner with development officers who manage relationships with influencers already engaged with Vanderbilt to broaden impact. Leverage data and insights to identify opportunities to engage celebrities and influencers in ways that support institutional priorities. Lead a university-wide influencer working group and collaborate cross-functionally to maximize the impact of celebrity and influencer engagement initiatives. Key collaborations will include the Chancellor’s Office, Signature Events, Marketing and Communications, and Athletics. Develop comprehensive social media, multimedia, and media relations strategies in partnership with DAR Communications and University Marketing and Communications to amplify the reach and impact of these celebrity/influencer engagements, generating widespread attention and engagement. Manage a production budget to support events, activations, and other touchpoints. Monitor industry trends and best practices in celebrity/influencer engagement to continuously improve the university's approach. Identify and leverage new opportunities for the university to engage with influential individuals and leverage their platforms to further the institution's goals and priorities. Develop tools to measure the impact of influencers and the various ways they interact with the institution. Use this data to identify the most impactful partnerships and inform future strategy. Implement attendee information gathering mechanisms at marquee events and activations for lead generation for development officers. Develop strategies with DAR Communications and University Marketing and Communications for follow- up outreach to attendees of note including potential cultivation as new donors. Other duties as assigned

Supervisory Relationships:

This position will supervise one program coordinator. This position reports administratively and functionally to the Executive Director of Leadership Programs.

If you are passionate about higher education and are a self-starter that is curious about connecting influencer interests with university priorities, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity!

Work Environment:

This position will be located in the Nashville area and will by hybrid, meaning it will require being in the office 1-2 days per week, or more depending on business needs.

Education and Certifications: A bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent combination of education, relevant military experience, and relevant skills, is required. Experience and Skills:

The Senior Director of Influencer and Celebrity Engagement must be a polished professional who can strategically align the university's priorities with the interests and platforms of prominent celebrities and influencers, ultimately driving greater visibility, engagement, and impact for the institution. Leading candidates should have:

Required Experience and Qualifications: 8 or more years, or the equivalent, of related professional experience in higher education, communications, event planning, client relations, marketing, and/or PR. Demonstrated success in cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with high-profile celebrities, influencers, and/or public figures. Proven track record of working collaboratively across teams and departments to facilitate solutions and drive forward institutional priorities. Exceptional strategic thinking and creativity skills to identify unique synergies between the university's strengths and the interests of celebrities/influencers. Expertise in designing and executing marquee events, programs, and other engagement opportunities that captivate audiences and achieve desired outcomes. Essential Skills and Attributes: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively liaise with diverse stakeholders, including university leadership, faculty, and external partners. Strong project management and execution capabilities to coordinate complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives and deliver measurable results with attention to detail. Proficiency in coordinating with communications colleagues to leverage social media platforms and multimedia tools to amplify the reach and impact of celebrity/influencer engagements. Ability to serve as a brand ambassador for the university, representing its values and mission while enhancing its reputation and visibility through high-profile partnerships. Demonstrated ability to exercise good judgment in the handling of confidential information. Familiarity with Vanderbilt University and/or a solid understanding of a major research university environment. Capacity to perform effectively in an intellectually rigorous and complex academic setting. Adaptability and agility to navigate rapidly changing environments, identify emerging trends, and pivot strategies as needed. Commitment to the advancement of education, research, and the principles governing Development and Alumni Relations. Open to evening and weekend work, as needed. Values the importance of equity as an organizational operating principle and is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion