Philanthropic Research Strategist

PRIMARY PURPOSE

Responsible for designing, directing and implementing a strategic and proactive research program for identification, qualification, cultivation and solicitation of donors at all levels/types of giving to meet the goals of Parkland Foundation. The Prospect Research Strategist is responsible for maintenance and continuous improvement of the prospect identification process (including key influencers and connectors), research and analysis, and tracking.

MINIMUM SPECIFICATIONS

Education

• Must have a Bachelor's degree.

Experience

• Must have two (2) years of experience in prospect research, database management, and/or leading prospect strategy for a major gifts fundraising team or sales team.

Equivalent Education and/or Experience

• Experience can be substituted for education.

Certification/Registration/Licensure

• None.

Required Tests for Placement

• None.

Skills or Special Abilities

• Demonstrated success in developing a strategic vision and overall direction and leadership of donor and prospect research initiatives.
  Excellent organizational, analytical, written, verbal and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain solid and effective working relationships with individuals/groups at all levels in the community such as Parkland staff, donors, volunteers, and board members.
• Demonstrated ability to bring creative and tailored approaches to fundraising research methodology.
• Demonstrated self-motivation, initiative and ability to set priorities, work proactively and independently on projects and complete work in a timely manner despite competing deadlines and requirements.
• Working knowledge of personal computers, word processor, spread sheet, and data base management software.
• Knowledge of Raiser's Edge or comparable donor management system.
• Ability to handle confidential materials with appropriate discretion.

Responsibilities

• Creates, directs and implements a comprehensive, systematic and integrated research program that enhances the identification, cultivation and solicitation of donors and prospects at all levels.
• Directs all phases of prospect identification, research, review and pipeline management and proactively works with development officers to ensure that prospects/donors are being moved through the donor cycle.
• Creates and executes strategies for identifying prospects in line with Parkland's fundraising priorities.
• Creates and directs a rigorous portfolio management process to measure metrics and progress of all gift officers.
• Leads regularly-scheduled prospect review meetings.
• Conducts gift pyramid and prospect pipeline analysis to assess current and future prospects needs to achieve fundraising goals.
• Provides prospect profiles, including assessment of wealth and philanthropic interests (or grant-making criteria) and propensity to support Parkland to the extent possible. Provides high quality briefings on donors and prospects in advance of meetings and events.
• Develops materials/information for moves management meetings with fundraising staff to review progress of fundraising tactics and solicitation of prospects.
• Develops assessment and measurement strategies and methods to report on the effectiveness of prospect activity.
• Develops and manages all prospect research policies of the Foundation pertaining to research standards and methodology, pipeline management, and prospect assignment. Follows the Association of Prospect Researchers for Advancement (APRA) guidelines for all research activities.

Job Accountabilities

• Identifies ways to improve work processes and improve customer satisfaction. Makes recommendations to supervisor, implements, and monitors results as appropriate in support of the overall goals of the department and Parkland.
• Stays abreast of the latest developments, advancements, and trends in the field by attending seminars/workshops, reading professional journals, actively participating in professional organizations, and/or maintaining certification or licensure. Integrates knowledge gained into current work practices.
• Maintains knowledge of applicable rules, regulations, policies, laws and guidelines that impact the area. Develops effective internal controls designed to promote adherence with applicable laws, accreditation agency requirements, and federal, state, and private health plans. Seeks advice and guidance as needed to ensure proper understanding.