"Philanthropy Officer"

Position Summary/Description

The Graduate School is seeking a dedicated Philanthropy Officer to join our team and support the Chief Development Officer in driving fundraising efforts for The Graduate School. This role involves assisting in the development and execution of a strategic solicitation plan to meet fundraising goals. The Philanthropy Officer will cultivate and maintain relationships with prospective donors through in-person, virtual, and phone meetings, with a focus on securing donations and commitments of $5,000 or more, and completing at least 150 face-to-face donor visits annually.

Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, the Philanthropy Officer will be an integral member of the Development team in The Graduate School. The Philanthropy Officer will be responsible for developing and executing a leadership annual and major gift fundraising strategy to support the mission of The Graduate School. In this role, the Philanthropy Officer will work collaboratively to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward leadership and major gift prospects.

Key responsibilities include managing a portfolio of alumni, faculty, staff, and supporters of graduate education. The role emphasizes relationship-building and securing contributions through ongoing, personalized engagement. The Philanthropy Officer will also collaborate with the University Development Office and other teams to foster long-term donor relationships and support key fundraising initiatives for university projects and campaigns that focus on graduate and professional students. Additionally, the position involves partnering with the Chief Development Officer to develop fundraising strategies and plans in alignment with The Graduate School's goals and the upcoming comprehensive capital campaign.

Education and Experience

Ability to interact effectively in a comprehensive research university setting. Familiarity with the University's academic and administrative offices and their functions; knowledge of and ability to tap resources within the University community. Fundraising experience and/or related and transferable skills.

Essential Skills

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in a collaborative environment.
• Ability to meet deadlines, and the ability to articulate persuasive messages effectively in writing and verbal presentations.
• Proficiency in computer databases and word processing software.
• Ability to travel and work evenings and weekends as necessary.