Senior Prospect Research Analyst I

Waltham, MA, United States

Position Summary:

The Institutional Advancement (IA) Division at Brandeis University is seeking strategic, innovative, self-motivated professional with a client-services orientation and an entrepreneurial spirit to join the Prospect Research team as Senior Prospect Research Analyst I . Reporting to the Associate Director of Prospect Research and Pipeline Development, the Analyst is an integral member of the IA division.

As a key part of Brandeis Prospect Development, the Senior Prospect Research Analyst will actively contribute to the qualification and identification of major donor prospects with the goal of expanding the major donor pool for the organization and assist in implementing a comprehensive Prospect Development program. These efforts involve researching and writing profiles on existing donors and potential, as well as providing strategic analysis of the existing and potential donor pipeline, and participating in the process for the identification of new prospects.

The Analyst must be able to manage projects related to the needs of the department using independent judgment, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Key performance indicators for this role also include project management responsibilities and mentorship of junior Prospect Development staff. A commitment to a high level of customer service, appreciation for an end user's perspective on research products, familiarity with industry standards, a track record of producing high quality work on tight deadlines, commitment to advocating for industry best practices, and fierce attention to detail are required for success in this position.

This is a hybrid role that adheres to our division's current schedule of 3 days in the office and 2 days remote. Candidates must be able to regularly report to our office in Waltham, MA.

Primary Projects and Key Duties:

Reactive Research (40%)

Conduct research and nuanced analysis of biographical, philanthropic, professional, and financial information of individuals, corporations, and foundations to inform accurate narratives and assess prospects' affinity and giving capability.

Create succinct, in-depth research profiles that will assist fundraisers in determining appropriate cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies.

Respond to requests from fundraisers in the research queue, adhering to deadlines and maintaining positive, productive relationships.

Follow best practices, respect for prospect and donor confidentiality, and HIPAA, FERPA and other privacy regulations while entering and maintaining research data in Raiser's Edge.

Proactive Research (40%)

Regularly participate in prospecting projects to identify, research, and distribute qualified leads to help build and sustain a strong pipeline of prospects and donors.

Utilize prospect research tools such as LexisNexis, DonorSearch, iWave, Factiva, and Foundation Center to conduct further analysis and assist with prospecting.

Assist with analyzing screenings of the prospect pool to gauge assets, giving capacities and philanthropic interests.

Contribute ideas and insights that support prospect development strategies and initiatives as well as the work of Prospect Development and Information Strategy.

Attend prospect strategy discussion meetings and help evolve strategy for how Prospect Research can support these meetings as well as front line fundraisers' strategic efforts.

Remain aware of Brandeis University's leaders and top donors. Keep informed of the organization's fundraising efforts, departments, and colleges.

Department Management Support (15%)

Assist Associate Director of Prospect Research and Pipeline Development in triaging the research queue and managing the flow of reactive work for junior researchers as needed.

Regularly meet with and review the work of junior Prospect Development staff to identify areas for improvement.

Produce reports from the system of record on Prospect Research metrics and KPIs to help Associate Director of Prospect Research and Pipeline Development with reporting on activities to IA leadership.

Serve as point of contact for Development Coordinators and Alumni Relations staff to field basic questions on Prospect Research policies, processes, and procedures.

Serve as a liaison with key stakeholders for special prospecting initiatives as they arise to develop scope of project and track parameters for desired prospects.

Generate content for Prospect Research Team meetings and facilitate discussions around important topics for our team.

Operational Support (5 %)

Actively participate in the recording, updating, and monitoring of prospect research, prospect identification, prospect management, proposal, and fundraising activity information in IA's fundraising system.

Promote best practices in gathering, storing, and maintaining data in the prospect database.

Oversee the updating and maintenance of funding interest lists in our system of record.

Collaborate with Prospect Development colleagues and others across IA to enhance and deepen portfolio and pipeline management and implementation across Brandeis.

Other duties as assigned.

Education

Bachelor's degree required; Master's or equivalent educational and occupational experience preferred. Demonstrated competencies in applied marketing research, sales, marketing and/or financial analysis, library science or similar fields.

Work Experience and Skills Required

At least 5 - 7 years demonstrated experience in advancement research, prospect management, fundraising and/or equivalent experience. Preference given to candidates with understanding of and competency with Apra's Advanced Prospect Research Skill Sets. At least two years of experience researching prospects with philanthropic capacity at the $1M and above level.

Proven library and investigative research techniques, emphasizing the ability to gather, evaluate and synthesize complex data from various sources, apply intelligence and interpretative insights and present information in a clear and cohesive manner. A sample portfolio of work products and/or demonstrated analysis and writing samples will be requested.

Exceptional reading, technical writing and proofreading skills with the ability to synthesize and interpret high volumes of data. Careful attention to detail, formatting and readability; ability to convey complex information clearly and write concisely.

High degree of fluency in computer technologies, including proficiency with building Internet and web queries, manipulating and retrieving data from complex database sources, managing news alerts and using electronic subscription services. Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet and database systems with an ability to also become comfortable quickly with the University's alumni and donor databases.

Ability to apply good judgment, discretion, and a commitment to professional ethics and data security when dealing with highly confidential alumni, parent, student, family, donor and prospect information.

Adheres to University and departmental business policies and procedures.

Presents a collegial, collaborative and customer-service demeanor that positively reflects the core values and standards of the institution and demonstrates tact and diplomacy.

Exhibits excellent written and oral communications skills that promote academic and business professionalism and convey information clearly and concisely.

Must be a detail-oriented, self-starter with an ability to work independently and manage multiple projects and priorities to meet aggressive timelines and challenging deadlines.

Must be able and willing to work occasional evenings and weekends with an attitude of doing what it takes to get the job done.

Stay abreast of current and emerging trends in philanthropy, fundraising, higher education, and select business industries.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Diversity, equity and inclusion are important values at Brandeis today and always have been for they are rooted in our founding as an institution. These values serve as a reminder for self-reflection, and a continuous call to grow for us as Brandeisans. Founded as a model institution for ethnic and religious pluralism, Brandeis University welcomes students, faculty, and staff of all nationalities, religions, and orientations. Moreover, social justice is central to the mission of Brandeis, which endeavors to foster a just and inclusive campus culture that embraces the evolving diversity of our larger society. Read more online about our Mission and Diversity Statements at Brandeis Mission and Diversity Statements.

If you are interested in a role and have relevant experience but your work history does not align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we nevertheless encourage you to apply.

Closing Statement

Brandeis University is committed to providing its students, faculty and staff with an environment conducive to learning and working and where all people are treated with respect and dignity. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, ethnicity, caste, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, including transgender identity, religion, disability, age, genetics, active military or veteran status and any other characteristics protected under applicable federal or Massachusetts law.

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