Duties/Responsibilities

Research and Prospect Identification (65%)

• Utilizes advanced research methodologies to gather biographical, financial, and philanthropic data from public records, subscription databases, and internal data systems to assess wealth, giving capacity, and philanthropic propensity.

• Translates complex financial, biographical, and organizational data into clear, strategically focused research products tailored to the needs of gift officers, University leadership, and volunteer boards.

• Monitors news, business developments, and other publicly available information to surface timely intelligence that informs development strategy.

• Supports proactive prospect identification through constituent screenings, giving report reviews, targeted wealth analyses, and other pipeline development initiatives.

Partnership and Outreach (15%)

• Consults with development staff to understand research needs, recommend approaches, and advise on prospect strategy by delivering timely intelligence through research, analysis, and ongoing monitoring of publicly available information.

• Presents findings and strategic recommendations to a range of audiences, from frontline gift officers to senior leadership.

Prospect Management and Portfolio Support (10%)

• Collaborates with Prospect Management and Pipeline Development colleagues on portfolio reviews, prospect assignments, and related processes, ensuring pools and portfolios are well-populated, strategically aligned, and regularly refreshed.

• Provides data-informed recommendations that shape cultivation strategies, solicitation planning, and portfolio decisions.

• Maintains data integrity within the CRM by keeping prospect ratings, assignments, and related prospect information accurate and current.

 Research Workflow and Coordination (10%)

• Manages a personal research queue with a high degree of autonomy, exercising sound judgment to prioritize requests and meet deadlines effectively.

• Supports research coordination as assigned, including queue management, project intake, and timely delivery of executive research for University leadership.

• Maintains current knowledge of evolving research resources, tools, and industry best practices to continuously improve the quality and efficiency of research delivery.

Requirements

Minimum Acceptable Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree and three years of relevant experience in higher education, nonprofit, advancement, or other roles requiring strong research, writing, and critical thinking skills.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Demonstrated expertise in prospect research methodologies, wealth assessment, and donor analysis.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to synthesize large volumes of data into strategic insight.

• Experience with CRM platforms and prospect research tools.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to distill complex information into clear prose and present findings effectively to audiences ranging from frontline staff to senior leadership.

• Excellent organizational and time management skills; adept at managing competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• High level of initiative, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to continuous professional development.

• Sound professional judgment and the ability to manage sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

• Collaborative and consultative approach to working with development staff and Advancement colleagues.

• Ability to work independently, adapt readily to change, and contribute positively to a team-oriented culture.