Job Description

University Advancement creates the conditions for opportunity human, financial, & experiential by garnering and stewarding the resources that advance William & Mary.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Director of Prospect Research, the Prospect Research Analyst provides full scale prospect research, identification, and development services throughout the prospect life cycle. Using the account management model, the Analyst supports several fundraising teams and individual fundraisers. Collaborating with advancement leadership, front-line development officers, and volunteers on prospect management and activity, proactive and reactive prospect research and identification projects, wealth and propensity reviews, and other prospect development related projects.

The research analyst utilizes advanced research and analytical methodologies to identify, qualify, and rank a viable pool of highly qualified prospective donors and volunteers in support of the Universitys strategic fundraising activities, including the annual, planned, major, and leadership gifts fundraising programs. Collects, synthesizes, analyzes, and interprets biographical and financial data to produce briefings and reports that inform decision-making; these reports include calculated wealth estimates and capacity ratings that indicate the ability and propensity of individuals, corporations and foundations to make philanthropic contributions to and serve in volunteer capacities for the university. Advises advancement leadership and gift officers on prospect strategy and comprehensive portfolio management, routinely reviewing fundraising benchmarks with emphasis on strategic movement of prospects through the fundraising cycle (e.g., cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship).

The Prospect Research Analyst will help foster a culture of belonging that embraces all people and perspectives. This is a hybrid position based in Williamsburg, VA, that offers a flexible work environment.

Essential Duties

• Long hours may be required to meet deadlines.
• Highest standard of professional ethics and agreement to abide by ethical and confidentiality precepts as set forth by the Commonwealth of Virginia, the university, CASE, and APRA.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree with coursework in research principles, library science, history, business, writing, communications, or a related field or equivalent education and/or experience.
• Strong analytical skills: ability to interpret financial information, manipulate, analyze, and synthesize data and present findings that are clear and actionable to a variety of Advancement professionals.
• Knowledge of a broad range of research techniques, web-based research, as well as database operation and usage.
• Possess a strong aptitude for logical thinking and intellectual curiosity. Strong problem solving, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Ability to adapt to shifting priorities and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to work effectively with a diverse audience, with the ability to translate analysis into an accessible format when interacting with non-technical audiences. Proficiency in delivering information clearly to others in both oral and written forms.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills necessary to interface with a diverse group of colleagues and constituents as well as the ability to lead and build consensus among colleagues.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain strict confidentiality; handle sensitive information and material in a discretionary manner.
• Knowledge and understanding of current trends in philanthropy as well as fundraising principles (typically 1-3 years).
• Knowledge and understanding of the fundraising process and business intelligence concepts to include the ability to understand business financial concepts.
• Knowledge of web-based and online research databases and techniques (typically 1-3 years).
• Knowledge of standard research methodology and prospect portfolio development and management, evaluating donor prospects for capacity, inclination, readiness, and recommending relationship development strategies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters degree in Business, information studies, public administration, or related field.
• Experience in prospect research and management within an academic, nonprofit, corporate, or consulting environment.
• Experience analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating wealth data, gift vehicles, and their application in solicitation strategy.
• Experience incorporating common prospect tracking data in a relationship management system, such as prospect ratings, staff assignments, solicitation goals, strategies, moves, contact reports, proposals, and stages.
• Experience with Blackbaud CRM and industry tools leveraged in prospect research and management activities.

Remote Work Eligibility

Hybrid (works remotely at least 1 day per week but not full-time)

Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisors ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.

Advertised Pay Range

Up to $60,000, commensurate with experience.

Benefits Summary Statement

William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).

Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to:

Application Process

William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

EEO Statement

William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

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