Philanthropic Recognition Officer

University of Washington Medical Center•Seattle, WA

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

The University of Washington (UW) is seeking a Philanthropic Recognition Officer to join its Development team within University Advancement. This role supports the legacy and public mission of the UW by fostering meaningful connections that promote pride, advocacy, and philanthropic support. The Philanthropic Recognition Programs (PRP) team specifically works to highlight the impact of philanthropy and celebrate donors. This position will focus on three key recognition programs: The President's Circle (annual leadership giving), UW Lifetime (cumulative generosity), and Husky Loyal (loyal year-over-year support). The officer will play a vital role in cultivating relationships with supporters, ensuring they feel appreciated and connected to the university.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree AND a minimum of two years of experience in nonprofit donor relations, program management, customer service, communications, or a related field.
Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.
Experience in event coordination and customer-facing support.
Working knowledge of CRM systems to manage relationships and drive service efficiency.
Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify inefficiencies and propose practical process improvements.
Demonstrated strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for correspondence, special reports, spreadsheets, databases, and forms.
Ability to make decisions in ambiguous situations and exercise good judgment based on available information in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work independently, problem solve, take initiative, set priorities, and handle multiple projects efficiently and effectively.
Ability to lift/move 20 pounds regularly and up to 40 pounds occasionally for event setup and tear down.
Ability to stand 4 or more hours continuously.
Ability to walk 4 or more hours continuously.
Ability to work greater than a 10-hour day.

Responsibilities

Oversee day-to-day fulfillment activities for donor recognition programs, including communications, inventory, vendor relations, gift distribution, and CRM recognition coding.
Act as a CRM expert and improve processes through enhanced tools, workflows, and standard operating procedures.
Manage donor recognition inquiries, concerns, and feedback as the primary point of contact, ensuring timely and professional responses.
Analyze donor responses to identify actionable insights and recommend strategy improvements.
Independently write and edit donor materials such as emails, website content, newsletters, ads, and impact stories.
Support donor engagement and University fundraising goals by using data and research to guide communication plans and decisions.
Maintain an inventory of digital assets for recognition programs, ensuring websites and other online resources are regularly updated and aligned with current strategies.
Support the planning and implementation of exclusive donor recognition events in partnership with University Marketing & Communications.
Manage invitation lists and CRM data for events, maintain project documentation and workflows, and occasionally lead small-scale donor engagement events involving vendors, volunteers, and event logistics.
Provide input into the annual planning process by sharing ideas and recommendations based on audience needs, past events, and program goals.
Act as an internal ambassador for recognition programs by sharing information, fostering cross-team understanding, and partnering with the Associate Director to increase program visibility.
Participate in relevant University Advancement and UW committees, working groups, events, and activities.
Perform other duties as assigned.