Director of Prospect Research - Tulane University

Another Source • New Orleans, LA

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

Tulane University is seeking a Director of Advancement Prospect Research in New Orleans, LA. This is a hybrid role with three days onsite and two days remote. The position offers an opportunity for an experienced prospect research professional to take on greater leadership and ownership. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of prospect research, the ability to develop and mentor a growing team, and a passion for shaping a more proactive and strategic research function. Tulane University, founded in 1834, is a nationally recognized research institution with a strong connection to New Orleans. The university is currently undertaking a significant initiative involving the redevelopment of the historic Charity Hospital, which will create new spaces for research, education, and collaboration. The Director of Advancement Prospect Research will play a crucial role in strengthening the prospect development strategy and insights that support fundraising efforts and advance Tulane's mission, especially as the university builds on its $2 billion campaign with a new $650 million initiative.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5 years of experience in development research, prospect management, or prospect development in a higher education, healthcare, or complex non-profit environment.
• Any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications may be considered.
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with data-driven research using industry-standard software, web-based tools, data management systems, social media, and other methodologies.
• Ability to manage multiple demands and projects simultaneously and meet strict deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving, project management, and organizational aptitude.
• Ability to work collaboratively and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Understanding of prospect management concepts, including complex analyses and identifying philanthropic patterns.
• Passion for excellent customer service and commitment to exceptional quality.
• Ability to inspire colleagues toward common objectives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• Commitment to higher education values.
• Professional memberships in APRA, CASE, or AASP.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel (VLOOKUPs, pivot tables, charts, formulas).
• Experience with fundraising CRMs (preferably Salesforce) and data visualization tools.
• Ability to interpret and analyze complex financial statements.
• Experience leading large, complex projects with multiple tasks and competing deadlines.
• An ability to assist and advise in developing and implementing prospect research guidelines and procedures.
• Experience designing and implementing comprehensive data-mining and proactive prospect identification projects.
• Ability to initiate and lead projects to improve service to development officers and/or units.
• Experience researching, analyzing, and maintaining information on prospective donors using various electronic databases, publications, and online services.

Responsibilities

• Manage research deliverables and projects and direct prospect identification efforts.
• Delegate research requests to ensure timely responses and coordinate training for the prospect research team.
• Ensure compliance with ethical practices and data privacy laws.
• Provide strategic support for fundraising at all levels, with special focus on principal level strategy.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director of Prospect Development to set and monitor annual goals.
• Work closely with the prospect management and analytics team to develop and implement the overall prospect development vision and strategic focus.
• Develop research department deliverables and provide strategic support for fundraising at all levels for the University.
• Manage projects, delegate tasks, and ensure timely responses to service requests.
• Assist in the development, implementation, and maintenance of the overall prospect development strategy for the University.
• Serve as team leader and provide supervision to a team of research analysts.
• Meet regularly with researchers, individually and as a team, providing guidance and insight for their professional development and work product.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
• Retirement and financial savings programs
• Life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
• Health and flexible spending account options
• Generous leave and time-off programs
• Tuition waiver opportunities
• Employee wellness programs, health incentives, and access to the Tulane Living Well Clinic
• Employee Assistance Program resources
• Professional and career development opportunities, including LinkedIn Learning and Tulane's talent development programs

What This Job Offers

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