Gift Processing Manager, University Advancement (2848)

Idaho State University, established in 1901, is a Carnegie-classified doctoral research and teaching institution, with a culture built on trust, compassion, stability, and hope. ISU serves over 12,000 students in Pocatello, Meridian, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls.

The Gift Processing Manager is responsible for overseeing the accurate and timely receipt, recording, and processing of all charitable gifts, including checks, credit cards, cash, securities, in-kind donations, and electronic transfers. This role ensures compliance with financial and donor intent policies, records employee payroll deductions, reconciles daily deposits, and generates reports to support database integrity and audit readiness.

The Manager leads gift processing operations, provides input on system improvements, and collaborates across University Advancement to maintain data standards within the CRM. This position supervises 1 full-time staff, provides coaching and performance feedback, and contributes to overall efficiency, compliance, and donor stewardship strategy.

Reports to: Director of Data and Research, University Advancement

Supervises: 1 full-time gift processing staff

Key Responsibilities

Gift Processing and Financial Management:

• Oversee receipt, entry, and reconciliation of all gifts (checks, credit cards, cash, securities, in-kind, and electronic).
• Create and manage gift funds, pledges, adjustments, and payroll deductions.
• Ensure timely processing of transactions and compliance with financial policies.
• Partner with Finance on fund allocations, gift accounting, and transaction reporting.
• Support special events, auctions, and mobile giving platforms.

Database & Systems Management:

• Maintain accurate donor records in CRM; oversee data integrity and hygiene.
• Generate reports for gift processing and campaign analytics.
• Monitor appeal performance and contribute to fundraising strategy with data insights.
• Recommend CRM improvements; manage online giving and peer-to-peer fundraising initiatives.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Respond to gift-related inquiries from donors, development staff, and campus partners.
• Train Advancement staff on gift processing procedures, compliance standards, and CRM/reporting tools.
• Collaborate with Alumni Relations, Donor Relations, IT Services, Finance, and Athletics to support seamless operations.
• Partner with Donor Relations to ensure timely and accurate donor acknowledgments and recognition efforts.

Compliance & Audit:

• Ensure compliance with IRS, CASE, and gift acceptance policies.
• Maintain documentation for audits and regulatory reviews.
• Enforce donor confidentiality and data security protocols.

Leadership & Team Management:

• Supervise gift processing staff; provide training, performance feedback, and work assignments.
• Improve standards, resolve conflicts, and align priorities with advancement goals.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (In lieu of a Bachelor's Degree, a minimum six years combined education, training, and experience may be considered)
• At least 3 years of experience in gift processing, development operations, or fundraising administration
• Minimum of 1 year of supervisory or management experience
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and translate insights into actionable strategies
• Familiarity with online giving platforms, mobile donations, and peer-to-peer fundraising systems
• Experience developing reports and managing donor or fundraising databases
• Working knowledge of IRS regulations, CASE standards, and gift acceptance policies

Preferred Qualifications

• Four to Five (4-5) years of progressively responsible experience in gift processing, or advancement operations
• Experience in higher education fundraising is a plus
• Proficiency in CRM databases (e.g., Raiser's Edge, Salesforce) and reporting tools
• Knowledge of planned giving documentation and principles
• Advanced Microsoft Office skills, especially Excel and Word
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing staff and collaborating across departments
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects under tight deadlines

You must submit your CV/resume, cover letter, and list of three (3) professional references, including current contact information. This position will remain open until it is filled; however, priority consideration will be given to applications received on or before August 3, 2025. Salary will be between $60,000 - $65,000 per year, commensurate with education and experience. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision; life insurance; disability plan; employee assistance program (EAP); excellent retirement options and company contribution; and generous paid time off/sick leave accrual.

Idaho State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, including Veterans and individuals with disabilities.

To apply, visit https://isu.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/5/home/requisition/2556?c=isu.