The University of Toledo announced today its new vice president of advancement.

Samuel McCrimmon, 38, will leave his position as a fund-raising executive at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Health System for a role at UT including fund-raising, alumni relations, and marketing. His first day is Sept. 8.

Mr. McCrimmon said he is excited for the position, calling the job a “phenomenal opportunity” to further raise UT's image.

“I think as UT grows, it can only help Toledo grow and be stronger,” he said.

Increased funds benefit the university through student scholarships, professor positions, and improved facilities, he said.

Mr. McCrimmon said he believes the most important quality for meeting with potential donors, such as past graduates and those with ties to the region, is being a good listener. He said he’s already learned those associated with the school have a passion for UT and Toledo.

He is set to receive an annual salary of $255,000. The university's board of trustees must first approve his hiring.

This position combines the vice president of institutional advancement and vice president for external affairs. Vern Snyder previously retired from institutional advancement but had returned to assist. Lawrence Burns resigned as vice president for external affairs for a job at the University of Akron.

UT President Sharon Gaber has said reducing the positions will cut administrative overhead costs. The total salary of the previous two posts was $445,077.

Combining these duties is a natural progression for many colleges, Mr. McCrimmon said, as an opportunity to save money and allow the university to convey a clear message.

Mr. McCrimmon said he hopes to begin quickly and reach out to key donors and alums.

“We want to start those conversations almost as soon as I get there,” he said.

Mr. McCrimmon, who grew up in the Detroit region, said he is strongly familiar with Toledo, as he and his father would frequently drive south for Mud Hens games.

He previously worked for Wheeling Jesuit University and served as director of programs for the Executive Service Corps of Western Pennsylvania. He joined the University of Detroit Mercy in 2004 and UPMC Health System in 2011.

He received a bachelor of arts degree from Wabash College, a master of theological studies degree from Duke University, and a juris doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. Mr. McCrimmon and his wife have two children.

First Published July 30, 2015, 4:00 p.m.