Leadership Gift Officer, University Advancement
Wake Forest University

Job Info

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** Cover letter required for all positions and optional for facilities, campus services, and hospitality positions unless otherwise specified.Job Description SummaryIn 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.

Summary: The Leadership Gift Officer (LGO) is an integral member of the Philanthropy and Donor Engagement team within University Advancement. Dedicated to supporting the mission and values of Wake Forest University, the LGO plays a key role in cultivating relationships with prospective donors to advance philanthropic support. Through a strategic focus on alumni, parents, and friends, the LGO will engage, qualify, and solicit major gifts, ensuring the University's continued growth and impact.

As part of the team, the LGO will manage a portfolio of prospects and collaborate with University Development to strengthen relationships and broaden support for Wake Forest. This role offers unique opportunities to work alongside University Leadership and gain deep insight into the workings of higher education advancement.Job Description

Essential Functions:

• Connects 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.
• Manages a prospect portfolio of 1,000+ with fundraising goals and benchmarks.
• Solicits donors for support of the Wake Forest Fund, Giving Society memberships, and other programs/projects as appropriate.
• Works collaboratively with all development teams; Leadership Gift Officers may be asked to focus their work on specific units, priorities/projects, or regions.
• Documents fundraising progress through call reports, cultivation strategy updates, and other communication materials as necessary.
• Works closely with the Director of Strategy, Philanthropy and Donor Engagement to create and implement innovative fundraising and stewardship activities.
• Communicates effectively between different departments within University Advancement and university wide.
• Represents the University in various institutional divisions as well as the general public and local community.
• Maintains current knowledge of university wide institutional priorities.
• Assists with, and participates in, University Advancement functions and events as necessary.
• Have high standards for your work and are proud to contribute to a mission-driven organization.
• Contributes to a transparent and equitable organizational culture where ethical and equity policies and practices are understood and lived out by all staff.
• Get excited about the prospect of joining a team that is making a difference in people's lives every day.

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• 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 requested.
• Ability to meet requirements of the University's automobile insurance.
• Respect for the dignity and abilities of all people.
• 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.

Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• 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.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Conditions:

Sedentary work primarily involving sitting/standing; communicating with others to exchange information; repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers; and assessing the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned. No adverse environmental conditions expected.

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.

To help provide a safe learning and living community, Wake Forest University conducts background investigations and drug screens for all final candidates being considered for employment.

Wake Forest seeks to recruit and retain a diverse workforce and encourages qualified candidates across all group demographics to apply.

Wake Forest University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in employment for individuals with disabilities.

Additional Job Description

Authentic and transparent engagement and collaboration from all groups and individuals is at the foundation of University Advancement at Wake Forest University. We aspire to be an exemplar for belonging and inclusion where personal and team achievements are realized and celebrated. University Advancement approaches each moment with sincere gratitude, deep and abiding respect, unwavering optimism, profound humbleness, and an eye to learn something new. Our yesterday has shaped us, our today molds us, and together, our tomorrow at University Advancement and Wake Forest University creates an opportunity for aspirations and inspiration for all generations.

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet all requirements listed in the job description. In University Advancement at Wake Forest University, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace. If this role appeals to you, but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification on the job description, we encourage you to apply. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Time Type RequirementFull timeNote to Applicant: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 his/her supervisor.In order to provide a safe and productive learning and living community, Wake Forest University conducts background investigations and drug screens for all final staff candidates being considered for employment.Wake Forest seeks to recruit and retain a diverse workforce while promoting an inclusive work environment committed to excellence in the spirit of Pro Humanitate. In adherence with applicable laws and as provided by University policies, the University prohibits discrimination in its employment practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, disability and veteran status and encourages qualified candidates across all group demographics to apply.

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