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Shaw University · 2 days ago

Prospect Researcher and Planned Giving Officer

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States

Full-time

Onsite

Mid Level

3+ years exp

Shaw University is seeking a Prospect Research and Planned Giving Officer to support the Office of Institutional Advancement. This role focuses on providing data-driven insights and research to strengthen donor engagement strategies and stewardship efforts, including identifying prospective donors and cultivating planned giving opportunities.

EducationHigher EducationUniversities

Responsibilities

Conduct in-depth research on individuals, corporations, foundations, and others to identify prospective planned giving donors

Analyze financial capacity, interest, philanthropic interests, and giving history to assess alignment

Develop a pipeline of prospect profiles, including briefing materials, and research reports for leadership and development officers

Maintain accuracy and integrity of prospect management databases, ensuring compliance with data privacy standards

Prepare materials that explain planned giving, estate planning and deferred giving opportunities in collaboration with legal and financial advisors

Ensure proper donor recognition and stewardship

Support stewardship by tracking planned gift expectancies and documenting donor intentions in coordination with Advancement staff

Monitor national and sector-wide trends in planned giving, reporting insights to inform institutional strategies

Create dashboards, data visualizations, and regular reports on prospect pipeline development and planned giving trends

Analyze donor and prospect data to identify gaps, opportunities, and emerging patterns

Provide leadership with evidence-based recommendations to inform donor engagement strategies

Ensure all prospect research and planned giving activities comply with federal Uniform Guidance, institutional policies, and ethical standards of fundraising research

Collaborate with advancement staff, academic leaders, and external partners to support donor engagement, without engaging in direct solicitation or fundraising

Support grant-funded projects by providing data and analysis that demonstrate impact, alignment with strategic priorities, and opportunities for long-term sustainability

Other duties as assigned

Qualification

Data analysisProspect researchDatabase managementPlanned giving knowledgeCommunication skillsTeam collaborationAttention to detailProblem-solvingOrganizational skillsPresentation skills

Required

Bachelor's degree in business, nonprofit management, data analytics, library/information science, or related field (Master's preferred)

Minimum 3 years of experience in prospect research, advancement services, planned giving, or related areas

Strong skills in data analysis, financial research, and database management (experience with advancement CRMs such as Donor Search, Wealth Engine, or similar preferred)

Knowledge of planned giving vehicles and estate planning concepts

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights

Strong attention to detail, discretion, and commitment to confidentiality

Must have a philosophy that is consistent with the Mission, Vision and Core Values of the organization

Vision, commitment, and experience in achieving goals and pursuing excellence is critical

Strong oral and written presentation skills

Ability to work well independently and as a member of a team

Excellence in organization, decision-making, problem-solving and creating a collaborative environment

Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Must be able to read, write and speak fluently in English

Ability to sit or stand for up to 8 hours/day

Some lifting (up to 25 pounds occasionally), bending, and carrying