Intermediate Specialist, Advancement

University of Ottawa•Ottawa, ON

6d•CA$80,942 - CA$102,245•Onsite

About The Position

University Advancement plays a pivotal role in fostering meaningful connections between the University and its alumni, donors, and partners. Our team is dedicated to advancing the University's mission by securing philanthropic support, engaging with our vibrant alumni community, and building partnerships that drive innovation and excellence. Through strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts, we help shape the future of the University, ensuring that it continues to thrive as a leading institution of higher education and research. Together, we empower our students, faculty and researchers to make a lasting impact on the world.

Requirements

A university degree
Three years’ professional fundraising or related experience, preferably in an educational, non-profit or sales environment
Bilingualism — French and English (spoken and written)
Knowledge of fundraising processes, best practices and current industry trends
Outstanding oral and written communication and relationship-building skills
Demonstrated ability to identify and solicit support through personal visits and different types of communication; knowledge of giving vehicles
Outstanding interpersonal skills, with ability to interact with prospects, donors and other stakeholders
Creativity, innovation and team orientation, with excellent problem-solving skills, strategic aptitude and sound judgement
Ability to organize and manage a diverse range of assignments while meeting multiple deadlines, with thorough attention to detail and consistent follow through
Resourcefulness and autonomy, with comfort working in a team-oriented environment
Intermediate to advanced skills in Microsoft 365 programs
Experience with Raiser’s Edge or other fundraising databases
Availability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends, and to travel frequently
Valid driver’s licence and passport

Responsibilities

Develop and manage a portfolio of up to 120 donors and prospects at the leadership and entry-level major gift stage in the donor life cycle ($5,000 to $25,000, including planned giving).
Meet expected revenue and activity targets annually.
Initiate and cultivate ongoing relationships with donors and prospects, to renew and upgrade gifts, secure multi-year pledges, acquire new donors and foster their involvement and commitment to the University.
Work closely with the director, stakeholder engagement, to identify high net worth potential donors and transfer them to the appropriate senior development staff.
Establish priorities and work plans by analyzing all relevant data and metrics, focusing on high-ROI potential activities and prospects.
Prepare and submit regular status reports and recommendations to optimize operations and maximize revenues.
Develop and maintain a sound knowledge of University, faculty and service goals and priorities.
Help develop fundraising proposals, concept notes, pitch decks and gift agreements that align with the University’s vision and priorities.
Working closely with the Donor Relations team, maintain an active stewardship program and ensure all processes and procedures are donor-focused and service-oriented.
Respond to donor inquiries and comments, and draft correspondence and other communication material, to strengthen the relationships between the University and its partners.
Work with the Advancement Services office, other development professionals, alumni relations officers and faculty representatives in a donor-centred fashion to manage the donor pipeline and maximize development outcomes.
As required, work with the faculties and services to develop and implement targeted cultivation, solicitation and/or stewardship activities.
In close collaboration with the Annual Campaign unit, play a lead role in co-ordinating special appeals to current or prospective donors as part of initiatives such as class gifts, memorial funds, employee giving or Giving Tuesday.
Lead the development and execution of communication plans related to targeted fundraising or alumni and community engagement events and initiatives.
Use social media and other tools to promote such initiatives through a multi-channel communications strategy.
Record relevant donor information and communications in the constituent database, to share philanthropic information with the Development leadership team and the rest of the University.
Represent the University professionally, knowledgeably and consistently at both internal and external events, locally and regionally, to attract new philanthropic opportunities.