Leadership Gift Officer, University Advancement (R0005275)

Summary: In University Advancement, we believe in equity, not just equality. We understand that in order to develop a fully engaged constituency; individuals must receive equitable treatment instead of equal treatment. Establishing equality means treating everyone the same. Equity necessitates transforming our community to meet the needs, interests and cultural norms of our University Advancement staff.

The Leadership Gift Officer (LGO) is a driven and collaborative member of the Regional Development team within University Advancement. Committed to the mission and vision of Wake Forest University and University Advancement’s Core Values, the LGO identifies, qualifies, and solicits prospective donors for Wake Forest. The LGO manages a prospect portfolio and works closely with the entire University Development team to strengthen relationships across all populations to increase philanthropic support for Wake Forest University. Leadership Gift Officers are given special opportunities to engage with University Leadership and gain an understanding of Higher Education and the inner workings of University Advancement at Wake Forest University.

Candidates desiring a remote location will be considered.

This Job Is For You If You Are Able To….

• Connect with alumni, parents, and friends via video call, phone call, locally on occasion, or in-person on campus to identify their interest in philanthropic engagement with Wake Forest.
• Manage a prospect portfolio of 1,000+ with fundraising goals and benchmarks.
• Solicit donors for support of the Wake Forest Fund, Giving Society membership, and other programs/projects as appropriate. 
• Work collaboratively with all development teams; Leadership Gift Officers may be asked to focus their work on specific units, priorities/projects, or regions.
• Document fundraising progress through call reports, cultivation strategy updates, and other communication materials as necessary.
• Work closely with Director of Strategic Development to create and implement innovative fundraising and stewardship activities.
• Communicate effectively between different departments within University Advancement and university wide.
• Represent the University in various institutional divisions as well as the general public and local community.
• Maintain current knowledge of university wide institutional priorities.
• Assist with, and participate in, University Advancement functions and events as necessary.
• Get excited about the prospect of joining a team that is making a difference in people’s lives every day. 
• Have a passion for workplace diversity and inclusion.
• Have high standards for your work and are proud to contribute to a mission-driven organization.

What Skills Do You Need?

• A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional development experience.
• Knowledge and a clear understanding of Wake Forest University, its component schools, and programs.
• Detail-orientation in coordinating activities.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills in prioritizing workflow and managing resources.
• Ability to manage and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Ability to multi-task and demonstrate sound judgment and discretion.
• Proficiency in Windows, Google Calendar, Microsoft Office (i.e. Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint), the internet, and other relevant software. Proficiency in the operation of standard office equipment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to research, collect, and analyze data, compile information, and prepare reports.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Knowledge of the University policies and procedures, or ability to acquire knowledge in a short period of time.
• Leadership Gift Officers will not travel unless needed by University Development.
• Ability to be a team player and willingness to take initiative.
• Ability to work occasional evening and weekend hours as needed.
• Ability to travel locally and nationally as necessary.
• Ability to meet requirements of the University's automobile insurance.
• Commitment to the mission and values of University Advancement and a commitment to equity, particularly racial equity, with a willingness to proactively learn about it and integrate it into all aspects of the work.
• Respect for the dignity and abilities of all people.

Desired Skills and Abilities: As the incoming Leadership Gift Officer, you will possess many, though perhaps not all, of the following characteristics and qualifications:

• Development/fundraising experience in a non-profit or higher education setting
• Experience in utilizing a fundraising database (ex: Blackbaud, razor’s edge, Banner)

Accountabilities:

• Responsible for own work only.

Note:

This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by the employee’s supervisor.