Advancement Analyst, Prospect Research

About the role

The Research Analyst is a professional position responsible for providing information integral to the cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of alumni, corporations, foundations, and friends of the university. The position critically analyzes secondary research through the application of independent judgment, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills. The Research Analyst conducts detailed research using advanced online databases, internet resources, in-house files and data, library, and other resources, and supports specific university fundraising goals through special research projects or analyses.

Responsibilities

• Develops donor pool by identifying prospects and conducting detailed research on prospective donors using advanced online databases, internet resources, in-house files and data, library, and other references.
• Analyzes, interprets, organizes, and distributes financial, biographical, and historical information on individual donors, corporations, and foundations, based on fundraising strategies and objectives.
• Collaborates with development officers to develop prospect identification, cultivation, solicitation, and overall fundraising strategies, based on research and analysis of data and information.
• Compiles and synthesizes data and information into written reports and oversees appropriate dissemination.
• Writes briefing memoranda for senior administrative staff (president, senior officers, and deans) to prepare them for fundraising calls.
• Keeps up-to-date with university fundraising objectives and priorities.
• Gains and maintains proficiency in the use of proprietary and internal databases and internet resources.
• Answers reference questions on diverse subjects from staff as needed.
• Serves on internal committees and project teams.
• Reviews local, national, professional, and financial periodicals to maintain updated information on donor prospects, identify prospective donors, and keep fundraising staff informed.
• Keeps abreast of current news and industry trends within areas of specialty.
• Sends articles and alerts to development staff as appropriate.
• Attends meetings, conferences, and related training opportunities of vendors and professional organizations and keeps up-to-date on developments in the development research profession.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 2 years’ experience in prospect/development research or transferrable experience (e.g., analytical, research, or information specialist role).
• OR High School diploma or equivalent and 8 years’ directly related work experience.
• Any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications may be considered.

Skills

• Excellent oral, written, and communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple demands and projects.
• Ability to work independently and within a team structure.
• Ability to work efficiently and effectively with a minimum of supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to pay attention to detail and meet timeline expectations.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive information discreetly.

Preferred Qualifications

• Research experience in an academic, higher education, or non-profit setting.
• Knowledge of Tulane University.