Development Officer (Digital), University Advancement (R0004898)

Summary: The Development Officer is a member of the Regional Development team and identifies, qualifies, and solicits prospective donors for Wake Forest Fund support, Giving Society membership, and Wake Forest University’s fundraising initiatives. The Development Officer manages a prospect portfolio and works closely with the Regional and Unit Development teams to strengthen relationships across all populations to increase philanthropic support for Wake Forest University. Development Officers will be given special opportunities to engage with Leadership and gain an understanding of the inner workings of University Development.

The Development Officer (Digital) will not travel unless needed by University Development.

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

• Meet with alumni, parents, and friends via video call, phone call, or in-person on campus to identify level of philanthropic engagement, determine the level of other institutional support/engagement, and prospect market composition.
• Manage a portfolio of donors and prospects with fundraising goals and benchmarks.
• Solicit donors for support of the Wake Forest Fund, Giving Society membership, and other programs/projects as appropriate. 
• Work cross-functionally with all development teams; Development Officers may be asked to focus their work on specific units priorities/projects or regions.
• Conduct weekly visits/contacts, solicitations, and secure commitments to effectively manage a large group of prospects.
• Document fundraising progress through call reports, cultivation strategy updates, and other communication materials as necessary.
• Work closely with Director of Strategy to implement fundraising and stewardship strategies.
• Communicate effectively between different departments within University Advancement and university wide.
• Conduct outreach, schedule appointments, and communicate results and appropriate assessments with the University Development team.

• 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 all 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 and two to four years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and 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.
• Excellent 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.
• 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:

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

Accountabilities:

• Responsible for own work only.
• Budgetary responsibilities