Strengthening Strategy-Execution Alignment in Advancement

The Situation

UC Berkeley DAR was navigating increasing complexity: ambitious fundraising goals, evolving donor expectations, and cross-unit coordination challenges. Leaders recognized that while strategy existed, execution was uneven, and teams needed clearer alignment to move faster and more cohesively.

Our Approach

Caravann worked with DAR leaders to bridge the gap between strategic intent and day-to-day execution. We focused on making priorities explicit, roles clearer, and decision-making more consistent across teams. Our work emphasized:

• Translating high-level strategy into actionable priorities
• Clarifying governance, ownership, and cross-functional handoffs
• Creating shared language and tools to support execution discipline
• Crafting a “north star statement” that incorporates strategy, culture, and equity elements

The Outcome

DAR teams gained greater clarity on priorities and expectations, reducing friction and duplication. Leaders reported stronger alignment across functions and improved confidence that day-to-day work was meaningfully advancing Berkeley’s long-term advancement goals.