Director, Advancement Research - University Advancement

Carnegie Mellon University • Pittsburgh, PA

1d

About The Position

This position is responsible for the management and oversight of the research staff including hiring, supervising, motivating, training, mentoring and evaluating performance, the management of research requests, the daily work flow and special projects. In addition, the specific functions of working to develop strategies to identify new prospects to expand the major prospect pool and working directly with the President, Provost and senior administration offices to provide critical information for their interactions with key prospects and donors. This position is an integral member of the fundraising teams in individual giving, corporate and foundation relations and the school-based directors of development. This position will develop and manage a proactive strategic program for prospect identification and work to develop cultivation strategies for potential gift prospects and long term strategic initiatives to develop future prospect pools. Carnegie Mellon University is world-renowned as the birthplace of artificial intelligence, and that spirit of innovation is the heartbeat of our University Advancement division. As we enter a transformative era of philanthropy, we are seeking a Director of Advancement Research who will not only lead our research efforts but also serve as a pioneer in integrating AI and emerging technologies into our strategic operations. The Director will support a modern research program that leverages emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, and advanced research platforms to surface donor opportunities, enhance prospect strategy, and improve decision-making across Advancement. The successful candidate will translate complex data into actionable insights that meaningfully support cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts.

Requirements

• Adaptability, excellence, and integrity are essential qualities at Carnegie Mellon University.
• We seek a leader who can engage effectively with a wide range of internal and external partners, who values innovation, emerging technologies, and collaboration, and who is committed to advancing the mission of the university through ethical, data-informed philanthropy.
• Experience in implementing best practices to leverage existing programs and processes for potential efficiencies using technology, artificial intelligence and other emerging trends.
• Innovation and curiosity and the ability to manage the pace of change.
• Exceptional verbal, written and interpersonal skills.
• Excellence in Change Management, ensuring team buy-in and seamless adoption when pivoting to new tools or methodologies.
• Change management skills.
• Ability to understand and translate complex SEC filings such as proxy statements, prospectus, 10K and 8K filings.
• Deep proficiency in all facets of advancement research, including wealth screening, relationship mapping, and philanthropic propensity modeling.
• High emotional intelligence with a demonstrated ability to navigate high-pressure situations and interact with challenging stakeholders while maintaining professionalism.
• Ability to demonstrate judgment and discretion in dealing with sensitive information and data privacy.
• Refined analytical skills and ability to coordinate, analyze, and synthesize vast amounts of information and present it in a comprehensive and cohesive format.
• Ability to evaluate and implement technology solutions that enhance team performance and operational efficiency.
• Ability to seamlessly integrate these solutions to maximize operational efficiency and team capabilities.
• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 5-8 years of relevant experience required.
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check

Responsibilities

• Designing, developing, and overseeing a proactive, modern prospect research and identification program using modern technologies, artificial intelligence and data analytics that is aligned with institutional and advancement goals.
• Championing the adoption of AI-powered tools, predictive analytics, and emerging technologies to automate prospect identification, uncover new donor patterns, and enhance research productivity.
• Leading and managing the advancement research department, including staff supervision, mentoring, goal setting, and performance management, while ensuring priorities and deadlines are met.
• Identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and impact through innovative workflows, new methodologies, new technologies and benchmarking against peer institutions.
• Ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and ethical use of all research data, maintaining strong internal controls for sensitive and confidential information.
• Collaborating closely with advancement leadership, prospect management, and donor services to develop creative approaches for identifying and advancing major gift prospects.
• Overseeing the development, documentation, and ongoing maintenance of research policies, procedures, profiles, and analytical reports that support division-wide strategy.
• Staying current on research resources, industry standards, and ethical guidelines (APRA, CASE, AFP, etc.), and communicate best practices to staff.
• Attending professional training annually with emphasis on emerging trends, AI tools, and technological advancements in prospect research.
• Serving as a key member of the prospect strategy team and contribute to broader division planning, goal-setting, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Performing additional duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
• Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!
• For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director