Job Description

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Employee Type:

Job Summary:

As an integral member of the advancement strategy team, the director of advancement research brings a solutions-focused perspective to convert research and insights into opportunities to maximize both fundraising performance and prospect identification. This data-driven individual proactively formulates strategies, gathers intelligence, analyzes data and executes projects leveraging observations and collaborative relationships to support research outcomes and the needs of the Division of College Advancement.

The hiring range for this position is $100,000 to $115,000.

Essential Functions
To be successful in this position, an individual should be able to perform the essential duties and bring the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities that support the role. This list of duties is intended to be representative rather than exhaustive, and additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed.
 

• Oversee staff and operations of the Prospect Research and Analysis (PRA) team under the supervision of the Assistant Vice President for Alumni and Donor Engagement, Operations, and Research

• Generate and analyze broad data sets, search for explanations and underlying causes, draw conclusions, and develop actionable recommendations

• Manage and optimize processes for research, data validation, and recording using proven research methodologies and a consistent research cycle (planning and direction > collection > processing > analysis > dissemination > evaluation)

• Conduct topical “deep dives” using data mining and intelligence gathering efforts to uncover patterns in specific giving groups for various funding priorities and strategic initiatives

• Strategize and lead work to expand the pool of targeted donor prospects focusing on accurate identification and research methodologies to increase the effectiveness of fundraising efforts

• Identify new fundraising opportunities by keeping abreast of local, national and/or international news and industry trends, as well as collaborating with internal colleagues across the College

• Prepare and manage briefing materials for key meetings and events involving senior staff at the College and in Advancement

• Partner with the liaison to the president on briefing materials through regular meetings and calendar review

• Hone institutional techniques for prospect identification, tracking, and documentation with PRA staff

• Research industry standards, trends, breakthroughs, and best practices, implementing changes accordingly to meet Colby’s goals and objectives

• Lead data collection and visualization efforts for special initiatives that do not have department owners and require cross-functional coordination, including long-term research projects and surveys in collaboration with campus partners at Colby

• Track and provide summary reports using data visualization techniques to enhance pipeline development and highlight significant discoveries found through the research process

• Elevate and promote the PRA team, including coordinating strategy meetings in partnership with fundraising leadership, routine reporting and development of highly tailored prospect strategies through in-depth analysis of existing and newly researched donor information, and trend forecasting

• Conduct workstream analysis and generate recommendations to elevate the value and use of information provided by the PRA team

• Foster a team culture that inspires curiosity, innovation, and forward thinking while maintaining data integrity and confidentiality

• Perform additional duties as assigned; duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice

Position Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in education and experience; advanced degree preferred

• At least five years of relevant experience in an advancement or development office in an institution of higher learning preferred; capital campaign experience ideal

• Highly proficient in using database applications including Raiser’s Edge NXT

• Demonstrated professional work experience in positions requiring problem solving, business judgement, and analytical skills

• Proven ability to develop rapport quickly, communicate effectively, and build consensus with a diverse constituency

• Excellent social, written and oral communication, and presentation skills to clearly explain and translate complex information to a range of audiences

• Validated management and leadership experience possessing the ability to motivate teams to accomplish shared goals and achieve high performance

• Strong organizational skills; able to prioritize and handle multiple projects simultaneously and to work calmly under pressure of goals and deadlines

• Working knowledge of data analysis and business intelligence technologies and capabilities such as Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, or Spotfire

• Talent to navigate complex situations with diplomacy and discretion, building bridges between differing or competing priorities while maintaining a high level of professionalism in all circumstances

• Proven capability to work collaboratively and build cross-functional partnerships

• Experience working effectively and respectfully with high-level administration

Physical/Mental Demands

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform essential functions of this position and/or may be encountered while performing essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• To perform this role effectively, an employee is expected to handle employee information, documents, and sensitive matters with care, professionalism, and respect for privacy.

• This position involves working with a variety of timelines, including some that require quick turnaround and responsiveness to urgent needs.

• In this role, the employee will interact with members of the public and others in a variety of situations and conversations. Presenting oneself in a professional, respectful, and thoughtful manner at all times is an important part of the role.

• This position includes regular movement throughout office spaces, hallways, meeting rooms, and other campus locations.

• Daily work will involve extended use of a computer, including keyboard and mouse

• Physical requirements differ by position. In general, most roles involve lifting up to 10 pounds regularly, with some positions requiring occasional lifting of up to 35 pounds.

• Vision requirements for this position include the ability to see clearly at close and far distances and to adjust focus as needed.

• The work environment is dynamic and engaging, often involving multiple tasks and projects that require shifting focus and strong organizational skills..

• The noise level is generally moderate; however, there may be occasional moments of louder  sounds depending on campus activity.

Colby College supports the Americans with Disabilities Act and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

To Apply:

Interested candidates should apply electronically by clicking the “Apply Now” button on the Colby College website. Please upload a cover letter and resume to your application.