"Assistant Director of Prospect Research (UA26001)"

Position

Probationary; Range B*

The Assistant Director of Prospect Research is responsible for leading the identification, analysis, and strategic evaluation of prospects for major gifts, cultivation, and solicitation. This includes utilizing advanced wealth screening tools and both free and subscription-based research platforms, applying industry best practices to inform fundraising strategy. The position advises the development team by delivering high-impact, data-driven insights and requires an individual with a growth mindset, strong investigative, writing, and ethical judgment skills, and a natural curiosity to uncover and interpret complex information. This role is critical to campaign readiness and plays a strategic role in advancing Minnesota State University, Mankato’s fundraising priorities—including major gift fundraising, leadership giving, and alumni engagement—through the development of comprehensive research profiles on individuals, corporations, and foundations. The Assistant Director independently conducts in-depth research, verifies and enhances constituent records, and collaborates with University Advancement leadership to identify data gaps and recommend solutions. This position also contributes to the infrastructure and analytics necessary for successful campaign execution, aligning with APRA best practices and the University's commitment to access, engagement, and student success.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (conferred on an official transcript at the time of application)
• Strong investigative and writing skills
• Advanced computer skills (especially Microsoft Office applications)
• Able to multi-task and meet strict deadlines
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a self-starter in a team-oriented environment, work congenially with staff, administration, faculty, volunteers, and others, organize complex materials, manage more than one project at a time, adapt to changing priorities, maintain sensitive and confidential information, and communicate comfortably in an academic setting
• Ability to work with a high degree of flexibility, accuracy, and attention to detail
• High level of discretion and professionalism when handling confidential information

Preferred Qualification

• Demonstrated commitment to fostering a diverse working and learning environment
• 1+ years of experience in prospect research, advancement services, fundraising, or related roles in a higher education setting preferred
• Demonstrated proficiency in using prospect research tools, wealth screening platforms, and public records databases, or related software platforms
• Experience with advancement CRMs such as Raiser’s Edge
• Knowledge of data privacy regulations relevant to higher education

Other Requirements

Work safely at all times, which includes but is not limited to, participating and completing all required safety trainings, as well as performing all job tasks in accordance with Minnesota State University, Mankato policies and procedures utilizing appropriate tools, equipment and personal protective equipment.