Development Officer, University Relations
About The Position
The Development Officer, University Relations is responsible for significantly increasing and diversifying revenue for the College of Law and its key projects by securing philanthropic support from interested and capable donors. This role involves planning, developing, soliciting, and managing a portfolio of major gift donors to maximize financial support for the College of Law and institutional priorities. The Development Officer reports to the Dean of the College of Law and the Interim Associate Vice President of Development in University Relations. The position requires a strong focus on external relationship building and philanthropic support, while also collaborating with various college stakeholders including the Dean, University Relations, advancement staff, donors, alumni, administrators, faculty, staff, and students. The incumbent will gain an in-depth understanding of college priorities, programs, and stakeholders to build relationships that encourage philanthropic support. This role involves working independently and collaboratively with advancement, alumni relations, and communications specialists, as well as college faculty and administration. Maintaining positive relationships and adhering to best practices are crucial. The position requires making discretionary decisions and exercising judgment in alignment with legislative requirements and institutional policies, with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail. The environment is dynamic and fast-paced, requiring knowledge of university fundraising policies, Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) guidelines, and Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) ethical principles. Travel, evening, and weekend work may be required, and errors can have significant consequences for the reputation of the college and university.
Requirements
- A relevant undergraduate degree and appropriate training and experience in a related field.
- Three to five years of fundraising experience with a demonstrated progression in level of responsibility.
- Experience working in a diverse and inclusive environment is required.
- Demonstrated integrity, professional maturity, discretion, judgment, and decisiveness to inspire confidence among internal and external stakeholders.
- Goal oriented and results driven with proven ability to take initiative.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Strong customer ethic, interpersonal relationship-building skills.
- Strong ethics with the capacity to build consensus and maintain positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Demonstrated analytical and organizational skills, including the effective planning and management of multiple projects.
- Ability to problem-solve, think and act strategically and creatively.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and oral including public speaking.
- Proficiency in computer applications.
Nice To Haves
- CFRE designation would be considered an asset.
- Knowledge of the University of Saskatchewan and an understanding of strategic planning, fundraising, sales, financial services, events management or alumni relations will be an asset.
Responsibilities
- Actively manage a portfolio of 80-90 current and prospective donors at all levels, who have the ability to make gifts to support college and institutional goals.
- Identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward prospects through to gift closure.
- Develop knowledge of the college research, programs, and priorities to align donor interests with funding opportunities.
- Contribute to annual and multi-year fundraising planning in collaboration with the Dean and Interim AVP, Development.
- Collaborate with communications, advancement, and alumni relations teams, as appropriate, to prepare fundraising materials, donor communications, and stewardship reports.
- Strengthen long-term relationships with college donors by ensuring they are recognized in ways that are meaningful to them and in alignment with institutional recognition guidelines.
- Maintain accurate and timely donor records in the alumni and donor database and compile reports to support metrics.
- Participate in professional development, team planning, and university initiatives supporting advancement goals.
- Build and implement alumni engagement opportunities that build affinity and foster engagement.
- Manage post-event activities, including evaluation, recognition and recommendations on ongoing improvement and adaptation.
- Keep the Dean informed of donor participation in alumni and reunion events and attend as appropriate to strengthen relationships.
- Responsible for leadership and management of donor relations coordinator position within the college.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
