Position Description, Major Responsibilities, Requirements & Recommendations

Title: Advancement Researcher
Reports to: Executive Director, Constituent Services

Position Summary:
The Advancement Researcher conducts research in support of Butler Administration and University Advancement. In addition, this position identifies and qualifies prospects for the purpose of major gift solicitation, and sometimes higher level annual fund solicitation, for all fundraising initiatives throughout the University. S/he must have the ability to maintain strict confidentiality regarding constituent information and be able to work independently and as part of a team.

Position requires a well developed customer-service orientation and attention to detail, and the ability to handle multiple deadlines at one time. Proficiency in accurately identifying, analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating information on university constituents and prospects, coupled with demonstrated ability in written and verbal communication are essential. S/he should have knowledge of the APRA International Research Fundamentals Skills Set and ability to apply previous experiences to the job.

S/he should have significant aptitude and experience with computers and relational databases. A successful candidate will have demonstrated experience with a variety of research resources and tools including but not limited to, electronic wealth-screening and data acquisition services, news databases, and business directories. S/he will have the ability to assess quality of resources and make recommendations that are most appropriate for specific information needs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Prepare thoughtful, concise, relevant, research on individual, corporate and foundation prospects in a professional format. Utilize sources of public information to gather, interpret, organize and analyze meaningful background in support of individual, corporate and foundation profiles.

Continually screen newspapers and periodicals for financial and background information about donors and prospects. Work with other staff to ensure timely updates to the central database when appropriate.

Actively look for opportunities to support the identification of prospects with capacity to give at the major gift level within assigned territory and in support of overall department projects and goals.

Support document management and Imaging through forward scanning, and / or adjusted methods for getting documents gathered in the research process into Singularity.

Requirements:
An undergraduate degree is required. Candidates with one or more years of successful prospect research experience and experience in college/university advancement will receive the highest consideration. Significant aptitude with research methods and experience with computers and relational databases are required. Experience with Advance a plus. Excellent written communication skills and a clear, concise writing style are key skills to this position. A sense of curiosity and enthusiasm about learning and commitment to professional growth will serve the candidate and University well.

Butler University is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to enhancing the diversity of the student body and the faculty and staff; therefore, women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply.

To apply: Please visit careerbuilder.com and search keywords “Butler University.” Please include your resume and a cover letter.