Advancement Prospect Manager/Researcher

Abilene Christian University•Abilene, TX

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

At Abilene Christian University, advancement work fuels lives of purpose, leadership, and service around the world. As Prospect Manager, you’ll play a critical behind-the-scenes role in connecting the university’s mission with the people who make it possible—helping ensure that fundraising efforts are strategic, data-informed, and relationship-driven. This position partners closely with gift officers, advancement leadership, and the President’s Office to guide donor strategy, strengthen fundraising pipelines, and support campaigns and special initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required
A minimum of 3–5 years of experience in donor prospect management and research
Strong understanding of prospect research and fundraising best practices
Experience developing proactive strategies to identify major gift prospects
Familiarity with prospect research tools, CRMs, and databases
High level of discretion and professionalism with confidential information
Organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable
Curious, analytical, and motivated to learn
Able to manage multiple priorities with confidence
This position requires the employee to be a professing Christian and to be willing to support the Christian mission of ACU.

Nice To Haves

Higher education fundraising experience preferred
Collaborative communicator who thrives in a team-oriented environment

Responsibilities

Shape Strong Fundraising Portfolios: Lead portfolio management for major, principal, and leadership annual giving programs. Assign and balance prospect portfolios to support effective relationship management. Meet regularly with gift officers to review portfolios, assess performance, and refine strategies. Facilitate prospect management meetings with the major gift team every 4-6 weeks. Serve as a strategic thought partner, facilitating planning conversations with gift officers and campus leaders.
Build and Manage the Donor Pipeline: Analyze wealth, giving history, and engagement data to inform prospect strategy and capacity ratings. Lead periodic wealth screening initiatives from audience selection through evaluation and reporting. Partner with the Prospect Researcher to move qualified prospects into active cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. Monitor major and principal gift pipelines and review progress with advancement leadership.
Support the President’s Engagement with Donors: Work with advancement leaders and the President’s Office to prioritize prospects for presidential travel. Assist in managing and tracking the president’s donor portfolio. Participate in regular meetings with the president and staff to align strategy and stay informed.
Contribute to Campaigns and Special Projects: Lead prospect evaluation for campaigns, including planning pyramids and progress tracking. Research and vet potential candidates for the Governing Board. Provide timely research support for campus partners and leadership as needs arise. Collaborate with the Prospect Researcher to identify proactive research opportunities.