Research Specialist (Prospect Development Specialist)

About the role

Division of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement, Department of Prospect Management and Research at Kent State University in Kent, OH (hybrid work schedule). The position conducts specialized research for development professionals to enhance the university’s ability to secure private gift support or recruit key volunteer positions, and performs analysis and evaluation of financial, statistical, and narrative documents. Reports to designated administrator.

Responsibilities

• Perform in‑depth research on potential major‑gift prospects using advanced techniques and various internal and external research tools to identify financial capacity, philanthropic interests, university affinity, and key relationships critical to portfolio development and the prospect pipeline.
• Uncover trends within large data sets and apply findings to identify constituents showing readiness to engage and interests aligned with university priorities, guiding segmentation and outreach strategies.
• Collaborate with Prospect Management and Portfolio Development to plan and/or execute portfolio review meetings with Philanthropic Advisors.
• Analyze and synthesize large blocks of information into succinct documents and disseminate actionable information to divisional partners to support engagement, cultivation, and solicitation strategies.
• Prepare prospect briefing documents on individuals and organizations for the President and university officials for donor/prospect meetings and strategic events.
• Proactively improve and maintain the accuracy and breadth of information available on constituents within the university’s system of record.
• Assist in the development of prospect research policies and procedures.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Liberal Arts, Library Science, or a related field.
• At least one year of experience in prospect research or a related fundraising field.