Assistant Director, Training and Staff Engagement

The Assistant Director of Training and Staff Engagement plays a key role in shaping a consistent, inclusive, and mission-aligned experience for new team members across Development and Alumni Relations (DAR). This position is responsible for leading the onboarding process from initial hire through early integration, ensuring new staff feel welcomed, informed, and connected to the broader DAR community. Working in close partnership with the Director of Professional Development and Staff Engagement, this role also helps to foster a vibrant internal culture by co-leading staff engagement initiatives that promote connection, recognition, and belonging. Through thoughtful planning, facilitation, and collaboration, the Assistant Director supports both the individual growth of employees and the collective success of the DAR team.

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 www.vanderbilt.edu/dar/

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

Training Management: 

• Oversee the planning and execution of a consistent, values-driven onboarding experience for all DAR new hires, including the development of online training modules and facilitation of new hire orientation session and additional live or in-person onboarding trainings. 
• Design and implement a longer-term onboarding program that extends beyond the first week and supports integration and development. 
• Serve as a trusted point of contact for hiring managers, providing guidance and resources related to the onboarding process. 
• Collaborate with the Talent Management team to ensure onboarding materials and sessions remain accurate and engaging. 
• Monitor feedback from new hires and managers to evaluate the effectiveness of onboarding and identify key areas for continuous improvement. 

Staff Engagement Management: 

• In partnership with the Director of Professional Development and Staff Engagement, develop and implement staff engagement initiatives – such as events, peer recognition opportunities, and team-building interactions, that foster connection and inclusion to the DAR community. 
• Develop systems to measure staff engagement, analyze data, and recommend strategies to increase staff satisfaction. 
• Partner with teams across the department to ensure engagement efforts are inclusive and relevant across diverse staff experiences, such as fully remote staff. 
• Stay informed about university-wide staff engagement opportunities and proactive communicate them to DAR staff to encourage participation in the broader Vanderbilt community. 

Facilitation: 

• Facilitate training sessions, including, but not limited to, new hire orientation, onboarding, and DAR Academy programs. 
• Display dynamic presentation and public speaking skills through all mediums – in person, online, web training, etc.

Establish oneself as a knowledgeable staff member by: 

• Developing a sound understanding of the Vanderbilt mission and the ability to communicate DAR’s responsibilities to the mission. 
• Attaining an in-depth understanding of all DAR departments. 

Cultivate relationship with Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) staff, People, Culture and Belonging (PCB) staff, and Vanderbilt University by:

• Establishing a sound working relationship with DAR staff to be a trusted resource for collaboration. 
• Building a relationship with PCB staff to align DAR efforts with broader university initiatives and goals. 

Contribute to departmental efficiency by:

• Understanding and effectively communicating departmental policy and procedures
• Clearly communicating and addressing concerns and questions
• Soliciting guidance from supervisor and co-workers to improve training programs
• Conveying thoughts to stakeholders on improving training, leading towards improved departmental performance