Advancement Officer

SUMMARY OF FUNCTIONS:

The Advancement Officer will work closely with the Advancement Manager to drive fundraising efforts, solicit donations, conduct prospect research, write proposals, and ensure the successful closure of fundraising initiatives. This role requires a sales-oriented individual who can leverage their network of relationships to introduce various fundraising products and secure financial support for the university. The Advancement Officer He/She should be outgoing, resilient, and possess strong sales acumen, with the ability to navigate rejections and maintain a positive attitude. The Advancement Officer will also collaborate with different departments within the university to coordinate fundraising efforts and secure additional funds.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Drive fundraising initiatives in alignment with the university's strategic goals and objectives.
• Utilize personal networks and relationships to identify potential donors and secure financial support for the university.
• Proactively engage with prospective donors, both individuals and organizations, to solicit donations and cultivate long-term relationships.
• Present fundraising opportunities and initiatives to potential donors, effectively articulating the impact of their contributions.
• Conduct thorough research to identify prospective donors and assess their capacity and inclination to donate.
• Utilize various resources and databases to gather information on potential donors' backgrounds, interests, and philanthropic priorities.
• Prepare compelling fundraising proposals tailored to the interests and preferences of prospective donors.
• Maintain regular communication with prospective donors to nurture relationships and facilitate the closure of fundraising opportunities.
• Track progress and engagement levels and follow up on pledges and commitments to ensure timely fulfillment.
• Collaborate with academic departments, research centers, and administrative units to identify fundraising opportunities and support their initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, policies, and ethical standards governing fundraising activities.
• Maintain accurate records of donor interactions, pledges, and contributions in accordance with established protocols.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelors degree in business administration, Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
• 3-5 proven experience in fundraising, sales, or business development, preferably in the education or nonprofit sector.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and influence decision-makers.
• Excellent networking abilities and a demonstrated track record of cultivating and stewarding donor relationships.
• Proficiency in prospect research, proposal writing, and fundraising best practices.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a high level of initiative and self-motivation.
• Resilience, persistence, and a positive attitude, with the ability to navigate challenges and setbacks.
• Familiarity with CRM systems and fundraising software is desirable.
• Demonstrate resilience and persistence in the face of rejection or challenges, maintaining a positive attitude and continuing to pursue fundraising opportunities.
• Adapt strategies as needed to overcome obstacles and achieve fundraising goals.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
• No or very limited physical effort is required.
• No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
• The position may entail work after duty hours, on weekends, on holidays, and in emergencies (i.e. may be subject to on-call responsibilities).

SUPERVISION:

Reports to: Advancement Manager

Subordinates: N/A