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Associate Director Programs Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Tombras

Associate Director, Data Science

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$56K - $56K/yr

The Associate Director, Data Science will report directly to the Director, Data Science and should ... Tombras is an E-Verify employer and participates in the E-Verify program. This is not designed to ...

Tombras

Associate Director, Social Media

Knoxville, TN · On-site

We're looking for an Associate Director of Social Media who can lead social strategy, drive ... Tombras is an E-Verify employer and participates in the E-Verify program. This is not designed to ...

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Associate Director Programs information

What does an Associate Director of Programs do?

An Associate Director of Programs is responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and evaluation of a company's programs or projects within a specific department or organization. They work closely with the Director of Programs and other leadership to ensure program goals are met, budgets are managed effectively, and staff are supported. Their duties often include supervising program managers, analyzing program performance, developing strategies for improvement, and representing the organization to stakeholders. This role requires strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

What is the difference between Associate Director Programs vs Program Manager?

AspectAssociate Director ProgramsProgram Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; often master's; relevant experienceBachelor's degree; experience in project management
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, team oversight, cross-department collaborationProject execution, timeline management, stakeholder communication
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, education, healthcare, corporate sectorsSimilar sectors, often within larger organizations

The Associate Director Programs typically focus on strategic oversight and leadership of multiple projects, requiring higher-level planning and coordination. Program Managers handle day-to-day project execution, ensuring deliverables meet deadlines. Both roles are essential in organizational success but differ mainly in scope and strategic involvement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Director Programs, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Director Programs, you need strong program management, strategic planning, and leadership skills, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in overseeing complex projects. Familiarity with project management software, budgeting tools, and data analysis systems is often required. Exceptional communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving abilities help you lead teams and drive organizational goals. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure effective program delivery, alignment with organizational strategy, and successful outcomes across multiple initiatives.

What are some typical challenges faced by an Associate Director of Programs, and how can they be addressed?

Associate Directors of Programs often juggle multiple projects and teams, making prioritization and time management crucial. A common challenge is balancing strategic oversight with hands-on problem-solving, especially when unexpected issues arise. Effective communication and delegation are key to ensuring program goals are met while supporting team development. Building strong relationships with stakeholders and fostering a collaborative environment can help mitigate challenges and keep programs on track.
What are popular job titles related to Associate Director Programs jobs in Tennessee? For Associate Director Programs jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Director Programs jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Director Programs jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Associate Director Programs jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Associate Director Programs job openings:
Associate Director Programs jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Director Programs job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Associate Director, Donor Relations Initiatives

Associate Director, Donor Relations Initiatives

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Vanderbilt University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

200th of 553 rated colleges and universities

Job description


The Associate Director of Donor Relations Initiatives serves as the operational leader responsible for the implementation, onboarding, and ongoing management of technology platforms to produce donor impact reporting and solicitation proposal processes. This position champions innovative strategies, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation platforms, to streamline workflows and reduce manual processes, thereby increasing efficiency and accuracy. The Associate Director partners closely with DAR Communications and DAR teams to deliver training, maintain system integrity, and support data-driven fundraising objectives. This role works upwards and crosswise across our organization to facilitate collaboration on work tech tools, aiming to add value, increase adoption, and consistently iterate and improve on our strategies.
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 engagement, 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 visit our website for more information: https://www.vanderbilt.edu/dar/
Key Functions and Expected Performance
The Associate Director of Donor Relations Initiatives will:
  • Lead end-to-end implementation and onboarding of the Mythos donor reporting and communications platform and other tools, ensuring alignment with departmental and university priorities.
  • Maintain oversight of platform operations including monitoring performance, managing data integrity, and coordinating upgrades.
  • Utilize AI tools and automation strategies to reduce manual data entry and reporting tasks, improving turnaround times and data accuracy.
  • Develop, document, and continuously refine workflows related to donor impact reporting and solicitation proposal generation incorporating AI-enabled efficiencies.
  • Collaborate with the DAR Communications team to seamlessly integrate Mythos outputs into communications and fundraising campaigns.
  • Collaborate with design team partners, coordinate the development and implementation of new templates as needed that are both compelling and brand compliant.
  • Provide expert support, training, and resources for DAR and Development staff to maximize platform adoption and leverage AI-powered features.
  • Act as a liaison between Development Operations, DAR, and Technology Services to troubleshoot issues and implement platform enhancements.
  • Analyze usage trends, donor data, and solicitation outcomes to produce actionable insights and foster process improvements.
  • Coordinate cross-functional meetings and project timelines to meet quality and delivery standards on platform initiatives.
  • Maintain and expand a content library with precise data cataloging, supported by AI-based organizational tools where applicable.
  • Lead pilot testing and rollout of new platform features or AI integrations in partnership with vendors and internal stakeholders.
  • Ensure use of Mythos platform and other tools complies with data privacy, security, and institutional policies.
  • Promote and implement standardized processes and procedures for Donor Relations and DAR Communications teams, optimizing cross-team collaboration.
  • Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Supervisory Relationships
This position reports administratively and functionally to the Senior Director of Donor Relations Operations and does not have any direct reports.
Work Environment:
There is a preference for this position to be in the Nashville area. If so, it would be a hybrid work environment where the expectation is to be in the office one day per week or more depending on business needs.
We are open to considering fully remote. If working remote, the expectation would be coming to campus approximately quarterly or more depending on business needs.
Education and Certifications
  • A Bachelor's degree, or the equivalent, is necessary.
  • Advanced degree is preferred.

Experience and Skills
  • Four years of relevant experience required, ideally in higher education or a related field requiring data and systems management.
  • Proven experience managing software platforms in development, fundraising, or related operational contexts.
  • Strong data management, cataloging skills, and operational system implementation expertise.
  • Experience incorporating AI or automation technologies to enhance operational efficiency is highly desirable.
  • Ability to collaborate across departments and with diverse stakeholders.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills with experience training users of varying technical backgrounds.
  • Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and capable of independent work and managing multiple priorities.
  • Demonstrated project management skills and comfort with technology integration projects.
  • Familiarity with donor relations, fundraising processes, or higher education advancement is preferred.

About Us
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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