Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Summary

Oversees all aspects of the development prospect research unit to provide information to fundraisers on individual, corporate and foundation major gift prospects.

Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in English, Journalism, Library Science, or a related field, or equivalency; a minimum of two years of related professional experience; and demonstrated ability to extensively research prospects and create profile documents required. Supervisory experience; effective verbal and written communication skills; experience in managing database systems and resource libraries; and proficiency in analyzing and interpreting financial documents, planned gifts and stockholdings are also required.

Working knowledge of DIALOG, InvestNet, DataTimes, CDROMs, and the Internet strongly preferred.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Essential Functions

1. Prepares research documents by completing searches on the Internet, computer data bases, CDROMs, hard copy resources, libraries, Development Office files, miscellaneous outside sources, and by interviewing individuals to provide an information base to fundraisers.
2. Ensures meticulous accuracy and discretion of search information on individuals, corporations and foundations to ensure integrity and privacy of prospect.
3. Supervises a research staff by planning and assigning work, making hire/fire decisions, giving performance appraisals, etc. to ensure a fully functioning workforce.
4. Trains staff and campus Development Officers in research techniques by helping them identify necessary steps in a specific project, taking them through the process of how records are organized and examined and how documents are prepared.
5. Edits work done by researchers to ensure the content and tone of each profile is accurate and respectful of persons, corporations and foundations involved.
6. Represents the research area at various meetings pertaining to projects for and with other offices, extensive research efforts, etc. to facilitate development and campus efforts.
7. Works with and negotiates with numerous computer database manufacturers and vendors to acquire an optimal rate as a not-for-profit organization.
8. May design and implement new research programs.

Problem Solving

The incumbent has the authority to make hire/fire determinations, as well as make recommendations for salary adjustments. He/she also oversees the management of the prospect database, creates programs, oversees all training in the office and participates in developing research strategies.

Problems encountered by the incumbent include staying current and determining the most cost effective information resources to purchase in a rapidly growing industry where the technology is revolutionary; and prioritizing the myriad of necessary research tasks engaged in by all staff. Decisions that might change unit policy or the main objective are referred to the supervisor.

The incumbent supervises 2 nonexempt employees and 1 hourly employee.

Comments

Work Environment and Level of Frequency typically required

Nearly Continuously: Office environment.

Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required

Nearly Continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking.

Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking. 

Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.