Posted on January 7, 2013

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Associate Director, Prospect Research

Job Summary

Design, develop and manage the department's briefings, officer liaison and new employee training programs. Assign research and directly manage Research Analysts in the production of all VIP briefings for development-related meetings, trips and events. Train Research Analysts in research methodologies and in procedures for reporting, executing and recording research. Assist in managing department operations by actively participating in departmental planning, budgeting and overall program management. Assist management in assigning research for all VIP briefings. Monitor the production of and give final edit approval to all VIP briefings. Work closely with offices and fundraising professionals across campus. Represent the department in briefing frontline fundraisers and top officers of the University when required.

Create briefing materials on individual prospects for the President, other senior University officers, and for University Development staff using established formats for development-related calls and events. Identify new prospects and develop, maintain and update information on existing prospects. Undertake financial analysis of prospects' and donors' known wealth indicators to assess philanthropic capacity. Understand basic financial principles and read relevant industry publications to learn about and keep up-to-date on business trends. Maintain liaison relationships with assigned regional and divisional frontline colleagues.

As part of the management team, manage all internal operations, help to develop and implement policies and participate in the selection and management of resources. Assist in the development of an annual operational plan and all necessary reports. Manage a team of analysts, including workflow and guidance, performance evaluation, and professional development. Interface with staff to determine use of the analysts' time according to priorities. Assist Analysts in developing productive relationships with their assigned frontline colleagues. Troubleshoot problems and counsel, as necessary, to ensure that development officers receive appropriate support and services from Research.

Train Research Analysts in fundraising fundamentals, including the prospect identification, qualification, donor cultivation, solicitation and stewardship; how prospect research supports the functions of various fundraising departments; basic research methodologies and department protocols for report writing, research distribution, storage and retrieval. May hire and evaluate staff. Develop and maintain a local and national network of contacts with other research professionals, including through participation in professional associations, to maintain a superior understanding of industry standards and trends. Staff events as required.

Education: Bachelor's degree or higher required.

Experience

• A minimum of three years of nonprofit management, development, alumni relations, marketing, public relations or similar work experience required.
• A minimum of one year of management experience, including staff required.

Application Instructions

To be considered, all job seekers must meet the requirements and apply online at http://bit.ly/091613Research.

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer.