Director of Prospect Research & Portfolio Management

This position conducts prospect research on individual prospects and donors, including wealth screenings, capacity ratings and other information to support fundraising efforts. Position will work directly with Advancement Leadership to define and regularly refresh prospect portfolios for each fundraiser using data and metrics to inform assignments. Incumbent is responsible for maintaining a pipeline of prospects with an emphasis on major and principal gift prospects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and document a comprehensive prospect research program for individuals and at the direction of the VP for Advancement, and corporations.
• Ensure prospects are appropriately assigned to fundraisers and that assignments are correct in CRM.
• Use techniques and tools to proactively identify prospects and ascertain donor capacity, interests, and other philanthropic giving. Utilize multiple sources such as electronic and print services, media, social media, college records and database, volunteer relationships, and personal contacts to develop in-depth donor intelligence that is recorded and updated in CRM.
• Train fundraisers and related colleagues on how to access prospect research in CRM. In partnership with Vice President and other senior leaders conduct bi-annual portfolio reviews to ensure optimal assignments that lead to fundraising success.
• Proactively produce research for department’s ongoing projects such as Medal of Honor award, etc. Make recommendations as appropriate.
• Generate and distribute reports for Advancement leadership and frontline fundraisers which are used to set goals, manage prospects, build portfolios and, in general, support a metrics-driven prospect management system.
• Develop targeted lists of top prospects for each fundraising priority.
• When approved by Advancement VP, prepare in-depth wealth and capacity briefing materials on individual prospects.
• Work collaboratively with members of Advancement Operations team, fundraisers, and other colleagues to implement prospect research strategies and identify specific research needs.
• Procure and manage all contracted research-related services (i.e. database screenings, analytics, predictive modeling). Regularly assess current research tools; recommend and implement best services and practices.
• Supervise any student or staff assigned to assist with research functions.
• Honor Roanoke College’s confidentiality and technology requirements and APRA’s code of ethics. Perform other duties as assigned.

Education, Experience, Skills, and Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree is required, Master’s degree preferred.
• 5-7 years of related work experience, Higher Education experience preferred.
• Experience with prospect research tools and applications.
• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, set priorities and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in MS Office products with an ability to learn college specific programs. Knowledge of CRM Advance a plus.
• Knowledge of current trends in fundraising and alumni relations.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Sensitivity to highly confidential information; complete discretion is required.
• Ability to work as a member of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Potential for hybrid or remote work schedule based on experience.
• Some evening and weekend work required

About Roanoke College

Roanoke College is a place where every student who works hard has the opportunity to succeed. We champion potential, providing essential learning and leadership through innovative academic programs and transformative educational experiences, giving students the mettle, mindset, and empathy to pursue lives of purpose, build meaningful careers, and meet society’s most pressing needs. Located in scenic Salem, Virginia, Roanoke College is an intimate, welcoming community that has served the local region and beyond for nearly 200 years. Now, we’re building on momentum and offering a Roanoke experience for today’s students and a legacy that belongs to every Maroon.

Roanoke College is a nationally ranked residential liberal arts college affiliated with the Lutheran Church (ELCA), located in the beautiful Roanoke Valley of Virginia. A Phi Beta Kappa institution, Roanoke College is an equal opportunity employer and actively seeks diversity among its faculty, staff, and students; women and members of under-represented groups are especially encouraged to apply.