Happy Holidays from APRA MidSouth

Job Opening at Western Kentucky University

WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

Advancement Services

Director of Prospect Research

Western Kentucky University, Advancement Services, is seeking applicants for a Director of Prospect Research.  The Director of Prospect Research is responsible for the overall coordination and production of information on the prospects and donors to WKU.  The Director of Prospect Research reports directly to the Director of Advancement Services, but maintains close working relationships with other Advancement Services and Development Office staff.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

The following duties are customary for this position, but are not to be construed as all-inclusive.  Duties may be added, deleted and assigned based on management discretion and institutional needs.

·        Maintains an overall knowledge of the University’s top prospects to assist fundraisers in developing appropriate cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies; references and represents that information at meetings and in discussions, as needed

·        Uses daily and weekly sources of information, such as newspapers, magazines and several electronic data sources for important information on past donors, prospects, and for the identification of new prospects; assigns prospect ratings based on giving capacity as determined by extensive financial research through on-line databases and resources

·        Maintains all existing central files

·        Proactively gathers data from research, journals, clippings, etc. on prospects; update and streamline the central files as necessary

·        Responds to inquiries and prepares concise written reports to determine financial assets, potential for philanthropic support, areas of interest and other University affiliations

·        Interprets biographical and financial information on individuals, corporations, and foundations based on the development staff’s fundraising strategies and objectives

·        Proactively gleans information from existing files and sources to identify new fundraising projects or fundraising approaches for previous prospects and donors. This information will be shared on a routine basis with appropriate staff

·        Keeps abreast of developments in prospect research by attending training sessions and communicating with other researchers by means of national and state professional organizational memberships, conferences, and electronic mailing lists focusing on prospect research and fundraising issues

·        Trains and supervises research staff and student assistants and manage a budget for research resources

·        Evaluates research tools and emerging technology and coordinates vendor relations

·        Responsible for oversight and supervision of the Prospect Management area of the alumni and donor database and enforces all policies associated with this system

·        Interprets and monitors prospect management policies

·        Provides standing and special request reports and data relating prospect management

·        Coordinates all transfers or changes in assignments for all entities associated with the system

·        Has a thorough working knowledge of the database system, helps maintain and enters updated information onto the system and performs other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

·        Bachelor’s degree

·        Three years of Prospect Research/Prospect Management  or related experience in a higher education or non-profit setting

·        Thorough knowledge of prospect management and research techniques

·        Strong project management skills and a collaborative nature in working with others

·        Proficient computer literacy and ability to learn applications quickly

·        Proficiency in conceptualizing and developing proactive prospecting methodologies using such tools as constituent list segmentation, data mining and electronic and peer screenings

·        Experience with donor relationship database such as SunGard Advance

·        Excellent analytical skills and the ability to locate and interpret financial and biographical information from a variety of sources

·        Understanding of wealth indicators and the ability to translate such information into prospect ratings and gift estimates

·        Strong analytical skills, including expertise in the modeling and analysis of data

·        Advanced computer skills, particularly with the Microsoft Office

·        Ability to foster a collaborative, customer-oriented working environment

·        Demonstrated record of independent judgment, initiative, problem solving and adaptability

·        Ability to maintain confidentiality

·        Demonstrated ability to analyze and synthesize a high volume of information

·        Ability to write concise research documents accurately with attention to detail

·        Excellent written/oral/interpersonal communication skills

Salary commensurate on experience

Applications for employment will be accepted electronically only.  Interested candidates must submit a letter of application, current resume, and names, addresses and daytime phone numbers of three professional references using the online application process.  Please refer to the following website to apply:  http://asaweb.wku.edu/wkujobs.  For further assistance call (270) 745-5934.  Please reference requisition number S3131.  For full consideration, submit application materials by January 20^th, 2012. Position will remain open until filled.

Western Kentucky University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, or marital status in admission to career and technical education programs and/or activities, or employment practices in accordance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Revised 1992, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Persons with disabilities, who need reasonable accommodations to participate in the application and/or selection process, should notify The Office of Equal  Opportunity/Affirmative Action/University ADA Services at (270) 745- 5121, a minimum of five working days in advance.

Job Opening at Sewanee - The University of the South

Director of Research/Senior Analyst
University Relations
Exempt, Full-Time, Regular Appointment

The University of the South seeks a Director of Research/Senior Analyst.  The Director of Research/Senior Analyst will develop and implement objectives for strategic research and prospect development in support of fundraising goals, informing fundraising efforts with research on leadership and principal level prospects and serve as primary liaison to and researcher for the University Relations department.

The Director of Research/Senior Analyst must have a Bachelor's degree and will need a minimum of 4-6 years in prospect/development research (or an equivalent amount of professional experience in an analytical, research, investigative, paralegal or similar role).  Experience with analysis of alternative asset firms (hedge fund, private equity, venture capital) for determining personal worth and with valuation of private companies and stock/option holdings strongly preferred. Experience with web-based research and database operations/usage required.  The ideal candidate must possess strong analytical, interpretive and communication skills required to analyze complex materials found in multiple sources and effectively articulate result.  The candidate must also be highly skilled formulating advance online search strategies, have exemplary computer skills, be proficient with business terms, Wall Street/finance, and compensation practices.  The candidate must also possess the ability to locate and analyze complex financial disclosures, possess a sound understanding of stock, stock splits, dividends, options, options vesting, and strike prices.  The candidate must be able to prioritize and manage multiple assignments, consistently meet tight deadlines and be adept at working independently and collaboratively with people at all levels.  Comprehension of fundraising fundamentals, goals, and the prospect giving cycle, along with attention to detail and commitment to accuracy is a must.

The University of the South comprises a highly-regarded College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and a distinguished School of Theology.  It is an institution of the Episcopal Church that welcomes individuals of all backgrounds.  It is located on a striking 13,000-acre domain in Tennessee's Cumberland Plateau.

Eligibility for employment at the University is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background screening.  Salary and benefits will be commensurate with qualifications.

The selection process will begin immediately.  Interested individuals should send a cover letter, resume, and the names, address and telephone numbers of three references to:

https://www.sewanee.edu/site/j9UB9e/application

Christy Owens
Human Resources Coordinator
931-598-1381
ctowens@sewanee.edu

The University of the South is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Minorities and women are encouraged to apply.

Job Opening at The College of William and Mary

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – PROSPECT DEVELOPMENT & INFORMATION STRATEGY

THE COLLEGE OF WILLIAM AND MARY

WILLIAMSBURG, VIRGINIA

The College of William and Mary has an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated Executive Director of Prospect Development & Information Strategy to join a strong, results--‐oriented team working together to support one of the nation's oldest and most distinguished colleges.

Bring your skills, entrepreneurial spirit, and track record of effecting transformative changes to this development team where measured outcomes and the formation of meaningful relationships drive success.  This position allows you to join the leadership ranks of a high--‐functioning team operating with solid internal infrastructure and a commitment to strategically grow research and prospect management capabilities through a campaign and beyond. 

 The Executive Director serves in a leadership role as a member of the Development Senior Staff including campaign planning/management team; creates strategy and leads all functions of the department of PD&IS which provides actionable information, metrics and advice on upper level prospects and donors to aid senior management in decision making; oversees and evaluates division wide training program and keeps abreast of tested and emerging technologies and methodologies that will aid the development program in more efficiently and effectively managing prospects, prospect strategy & information about major and upper level donors.

Requirements

Several years of research and prospect management experience or a combination of research, prospect management, and major gift fundraising experience, preferably at or with an academic or major research institution.

Entrepreneurial spirit and a record of  effecting transformative change.

Knowledge of the principles of external fundraising, donor  relations, capital campaigns, and of an academic institution's organization, structure, and function.

Interpersonal skills to establish and maintain good working relationships with a range of diverse persons from senior management to technical and administrative staff.

Demonstrated experience in independently developing and implementing strategic plans that incorporate a concise definition of goals, targeted audiences, and strategies  in--‐line with institutional goals.

Exceptional communication and writing/editing skills; ability to make effective and persuasive presentations to internal groups and external individuals.

Proven ability to develop guidelines and metrics to track effectiveness of projects and processes. Comfort and skill in managing complex issues creatively and effectively. 

Record of developing, mentoring and training staff. Independent judgment, tact, and diplomacy. 

 Experience in project and program management. 

Bachelor's degree required.  Advanced degree highly preferred.

To Apply

Application may be made via The College of William and Mary website: https://jobs.wm.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/search/Search_css.jsp Position # FP212L

Applications will be shared with our executive search partners at Cross Hill Partners, LLC.

Review of applications begins immediately and will continue until an appointment is made. The College of William and Mary is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Equal Access employer. The College will conduct a background check on finalist candidates.

Job Opening at Florida State University Foundation

Job Opening:

DIRECTOR/MANAGER OF RESEARCH & PROSPECT MANAGEMENT at FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION

The Florida State University Foundation located in Tallahassee, FL has partnered with national nonprofit search firm People & Systems to hire their next Director/Manager of Research & Prospect Management.

              

NOTE:  Applicant information is NEVER shared with our client without permission. 100% CONFIDENTIAL application process guaranteed.

TITLE: Director/Manager of Research & Prospect Management

OPPORTUNITY:

Are you an experienced research/prospect management professional seeking an opportunity to provide leadership, vision and strategic direction for this highly regarded foundation? Are measured outcomes and the formation of meaningful relationships the cornerstone of your management style and success? This position allows you to join the efforts of a high-functioning senior management team operating with solid internal infrastructure to strategically grow the Foundation’s research and prospect management capabilities through an up-coming campaign and beyond.  Does the opportunity to greatly impact the future of an organization through your research/prospect management expertise in an entrepreneurial and academically diverse environment sound like an attractive career advancement possibility?  If so, this may be your next career move.

Reporting to the Vice President for Advancement Services you will use your proactive and collaborative work style to provide strategic planning, operational guidance, interdepartmental training and relationship-based research to support the Foundation’s fundraising goals. Specific duties include the management/development of existing personnel, refinement and growth of the donor pool, oversight of prospect screening and donor information management.

QUALIFICATIONS:           

This position requires a mission focused professional, a Bachelor’s degree (advanced degree preferred.) and 5-7 years of research data analysis and prospect management experience. Ability to foster collaborative management based on open, transparent, continual communication, sharing, and inclusive decision-making is strongly desired.  Attention to detail, strong data management/analytical skills, exemplary writing and verbal communication, and advanced computer literacy are a must.

HOW TO APPLY:

By applying, you are ONLY sharing your resume with People & Systems, not the hiring organization. Your information is NEVER shared with our client without your permission. If selected, you will be given full disclosure about the position/organization, allowing you to decide whether or not you wish to proceed.  All applications are 100% CONFIDENTIAL.

Send a resume and cover letter to: FSU@peopleANDsystems.com

or

visit our posting at: http://www.nonprofitJOBMARKET.org/jobDetail.aspx?jobId=5853

JOB POSTINGS - Openings at Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN

Two Positions have opened at Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN

1. Research Specialist-DAR University and Central
    Application time frame: closes Friday, November 4, 2011

Job Description:

Identify and profile potential major gift donors to Vanderbilt University to enhance the university's fundraising efforts. Collaborate and strategize with colleagues, clients and key administrators regarding prospect identification. Provide clients with written reports containing analysis of information gathered from public sources and recommended courses of action for specific donors. Report to the Director of Research and Prospect Development (RPD).

Minimum Requirements:

This position requires Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 24 months of related experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

•Minimum of three years’ experience in university advancement/development operations, or other relevant experience.

•Demonstrated skill in writing ability and grammar usage as well as editing logical, detailed and analytical profiles and reports.

•Ability to analyze, interpret, synthesize and present complex information effectively.

•Ability to design and implement data-mining initiatives to identify and/or stratify potential major gift prospects.

•Solid judgment, sensitivity, and discretion in handling confidential information and situations.

•Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and staff, particularly in support of the university's goals and initiatives.

•Demonstrated ability to manage several projects simultaneously, set priorities and meet multiple deadlines.

•Demonstrated proficiency in usage of electronic research tools and techniques, including use of push technology for news alerts.

•Demonstrated proficiency in efficient and effective internet search methodologies.

•Demonstrated proficiency in use of computer applications and databases.

•Knowledge of SunGard Advance database.

•Exemplary communication, organizational and customer service skills a must.

Primary Function:

1. Identify and profile potential major gift donors to Vanderbilt University to enhance the university's fundraising efforts.

2. Collaborate and strategize with colleagues, clients and key administrators regarding prospect identification.

3. Provide clients with written reports containing analysis of information gathered from public sources and recommended courses of action for specific donors.

4. Report to the Director of Research and Prospect Development (RPD).

 

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Provide prospect identification and research needs for an assigned group of development officers (clients) enabling them to meet and exceed fundraising goals.

2. Collaborate routinely with clients to develop prospect identification, cultivation, solicitation and overall fundraising strategies.

3. Consult with clients to determine feasibility of research requests and special projects. Negotiate project scopes and deadlines directly with clients.

4. Advise development officers of database segmentation opportunities. Design and implement segmentation strategies to uncover new prospects.

5. Identify new prospects using traditional and novel prospect research techniques and tools including periodical and electronic resource screening and/or information provided by the prospect, his/her organization and or peers. Notify clients of new potential prospects consistent with established DAR policies.

6. As requested by clients, provide briefing materials to the chancellor, deans, Board of Trust members, and other key university administrators regarding major donors/prospects.

7. Provide guidance and leadership to research analysts and new staff through formal and informal mentoring activities.

8. Possess high-level of knowledge and understanding of the donor database.

9. Review local and national news data from internet-based and published periodicals. Send articles/alerts to clients as appropriate.

10. Utilize news alerts and push technology to review local and national news from internet - based sources. Review published periodicals, annual reports and ranking lists to glean relevant information; forward relevant articles/news to clients as appropriate.

11. Notify data maintenance staff and clients (as appropriate) to new prospect/donor information so that it can be appropriately updated in Advance.

12. Safeguard the confidentiality of donor information at all times. Uphold DAR policies regarding confidential information.

13. Adhere to ethical and confidentiality guidelines as indicated by the Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement (APRA) as well as university guidelines.

14. Manage special tasks and projects as assigned.

15. Produce and deliver service to clients based on departmental product standards within agreed upon timelines.

16. Maintain professional working relationships with clients and colleagues.

Additional Information:

This is a full-time position (40 hours per week).

Shift hours are 8:00am - 5:00pm; Monday thru Friday.

Salary is dependent upon years of education and experience.

Background screens will be performed and education will be verified prior to employment. Please be prepared to provide required information and/or documentation.

Vanderbilt is a smoke-free workplace in compliance with the Non-Smoker Protection Act, Tennessee Code Annotated 39-17-1801-1810. In accordance with that law and Vanderbilt policy, smoking is prohibited in all buildings on Vanderbilt property and on the grounds of the campus with the exception of designated outdoor smoking areas.

Interested applicants must apply at http://vanderbilt.jobs/ (requisition number RMB33697) by 11/4/2011 to be considered.

2. Research Analyst; Classification: Development Analyst II
    Application time frame: closes Friday, November 4, 2011

Primary Function:

·       Identify and profile potential major gift donors to Vanderbilt University to enhance the university’s fundraising efforts.

·       Collaborate and strategize with colleagues, clients and key administrators regarding prospect identification.

·       Provide clients with written reports containing analysis of information gathered from public sources and recommended courses of action for specific donors.

·       Report to the Director of Research and Prospect Development (RPD).

Primary Responsibilities:

·       Provide prospect identification and research needs for an assigned group of development officers (clients) enabling them to meet and exceed fundraising goals.

·       Collaborate routinely with clients to develop prospect identification, cultivation, solicitation and overall fundraising strategies.

·       Consult with clients to determine feasibility of research requests and special projects. Negotiate project scopes and deadlines directly with clients.

·       Advise development officers of database segmentation opportunities. Design and implement segmentation strategies to uncover new prospects.

·       Identify new prospects using traditional and novel prospect research techniques and tools including periodical and electronic resource screening and/or information provided by the prospect, his/her organization and or peers. Notify clients of new potential prospects consistent with established DAR policies.

·       As requested by clients, provide briefing materials to the chancellor, deans, Board of Trust members, and other key university administrators regarding major donors/prospects.

·       Possess high-level of knowledge and understanding of the donor database.

·       Review local and national news data from internet-based and published periodicals. Send articles/alerts to clients as appropriate.

·       Notify data maintenance staff and clients (as appropriate) to new prospect/donor information so that it can be appropriately updated in Advance.

·       Safeguard the confidentiality of donor information at all times. Uphold DAR policies regarding confidential information.

·       Adhere to ethical and confidentiality guidelines as indicated by the Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement (APRA) as well as university guidelines.

·       Manage special projects as assigned.

·       Produce and deliver service to clients based on departmental product standards within agreed upon timelines.

·       Maintain professional working relationships with clients and colleagues.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree and at least two years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:

·       Experience in university advancement/development operations.

·       Ability to analyze, interpret, synthesize and present complex information effectively.

·       Ability to design and implement data-mining initiatives to identify and/or stratify potential major gift prospects.

·       Solid judgment, sensitivity, and discretion in handling confidential information and situations.

·       Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and staff, particularly in support of medical center goals and initiatives.

·       Ability to manage several projects simultaneously, set priorities and meet multiple deadlines.

·       Demonstrated proficiency in usage of electronic research tools and techniques, including use of push technology for news alerts.

·       Demonstrated proficiency in efficient and effective internet search methodologies.

·       Demonstrated proficiency in use of computer applications and databases.

·       Knowledge of SunGard Advance database.

·       Exemplary communication, organizational and customer service skills a must.

Vanderbilt University is committed to the principles of equal opportunity and affirmative action.

To apply for this position, go to the following link: http://vanderbilt.jobs/  Under “Job Category” select  “Professional Non-licensed.” The position is listed as a Research Analyst (Development and Alumni Relations), Requisition Number RMB33697.

This position will be posted on the Vanderbilt Human Resources website until Friday, November 11.

APRA MidSouth Fall Workshop - NEW ROOM LOCATION!

Our conference has moved to ROOM 113 in the Knicely Center. 

It's still easy to find - you still come in the same entrance as before - just go down a different hallway. 

Here are directions - looking forward to seeing everyone!

APRA MidSouth Fall Workshop - Lunch Directions!

Lunch location for our Fall Workshop has been determined!

After a morning filled with timely information from speaker, Deb Darling, followed by a lively panel discussion, we will convene for a fun dutch lunch at CHEDDAR'S.

It's close by and we hope you will join us!

Directions:

Wild West

                Here at Vanderbilt, our research shop finds itself amidst a round of hiring for new members of our research team.  This is an exciting time.  It is a chance to meet incredible folks, and to learn from the outside-in how one finds interest in this unique career.  It’s rare that we have candidates with prior prospect research experience (though we welcome such applications).  More often, we meet businessmen and businesswomen looking for a new career chapter.  Others will sometimes have a history in smaller not-for-profit shops where they completed research as a small part of their work – and have a hunch they’d like to do more of this kind of thing.
                During the time I share with a candidate, it is important for me to note that I try to view my position in partnership with the front-line development offices.  I don’t think of myself as subservient to field work.  I also note that although I complete many reports and documents, my work is not clerical.  
                In the few minutes I share with an interviewee, I often explain that our work of prospect research is an industry unto itself.  We have our own national association, APRA, and in my case (here in Tennessee), we also have a multi-state local chapter, APRA-MidSouth.  Linking in with other prospect researchers to discuss best work practices, analytics or modeling projects, research products, research shop design and workflow, and other concerns – these give stature, distinction, and professionalism to the work that I complete each day.
                I also mention that our jobs as prospect researchers are as exciting as the evolution of the Internet (which I find pretty much amazing).  We are charged with information collection and analyzation, which the Internet (via software, blogs, products/services, and beyond) continues to develop in ways no one really can predict.  Sometimes I say it’s a “Wild West” of information, up for grabs for the best of us to settle, analyze, and make profitable to our organization’s goals.
                I rarely have an interview where the interviewee isn’t excited by the potential of the prospect research position for which they are interviewing.  Our industry continues to grow in size and promise.  We suggest enormous opportunities for creativity and business acumen.  Charged with our organization’s mission, we are navigating an amazing frontier of information and ideas to bring about more strategic philanthropy, and create a better world.
 
Geoff Little, APRA-MidSouth Director-at-Large
at.large@apramidsouth.org

Directions to APRA MS "Find Your Funders" Workshop, October 28, 2011

APRA MidSouth Fall Workshop - "FIND YOUR FUNDERS: Tools to Increase Your Donor Base" - Oct. 28, 2011 8:30-noon @ WKU South Campus - Knicely Conference Center - Bowling Green, KY

UPDATE! Information about our Fall Workshop plus speaker bios

Printable PDF documents on APRA MidSouth Events page - look for "HERE" links toward bottom of page!

Click on any page to bring it to full view

We look forward to seeing you there!

America’s Best Small Companies in 2010

Meet the top 20 on Forbes’ list of publicly traded firms with sales under $1 billion

Believe it or not, there is growth in this economy! These companies range from health care and mobile phones to consumer goods such as kitchen stoves and denim jeans. While many of the names may not be familiar, these competitors have experienced remarkable growth over the last challenging five-year stretch.

Candidates for the list had to be publicly traded for at least a year, pull in annual revenue between $5 Million and $1 Billion, and have a stock price no lower than $5 a share.

Are you looking to add new prospects to your organization’s fundraising portfolio? These might be a few great places to start mining! A few of these firms are based in the South.

20. LoopNet (Commercial Real Estate, Sales:  $75 Million)
19. Capella Education (Online Education, Sales: $385 Million)
18. Hittite Microwave (Semiconductors, Sales: $200 Million)
17. Dolby Laboratories (Audio Technology; Sales:  $859 Million)
16. iRobot (Appliances; Sales:  $373 Million)
15. Tempur-Pedic International (Mattresses; Sales:  $986 Million)
14. Strayer Education (School; Sales:  $579 Million)
13. GeoResources (Oil and Gas; Sales:  $98 Million)
12. UFP Technologies (Containers and Packaging; $115 Million)
11. Rackspace Hosting (Computer Services; $698 Million)
10. Transcend Services (Medical Transcription; Sales:  $84 Million)
9. True Religion Apparel (Clothing; Sales:  $353 Million)
8. Industrial Services of America (Waste Management; Sales:  $285 Million) – based in Louisville, KY
7. National Presto Industries (Conglomerate; Sales:  $491 Million)
6. NutriSystem (Weight-loss Program; Sales:  $534 Million)
5. WebMD Health (Medical Website; Sales:  $480 Million)
4. Deckers Outdoor (Footwear; Sales:  $869 Million)
3. American Public Education (Online Education; Sales:   $174 Million)
2. InterDigital (Telecommunications; Sales:  $359 Million)
1. Medifast (Weight-loss Supplements; Sales $218 Million)

Read more information about these companies here:

http://www.forbes.com/2010/10/19/best-small-companies-2010-top-20-entrepreneurs-best-small-companies-10-top_slide_2.html

Read the full Forbes article here:
http://www.forbes.com/2010/10/19/best-small-companies-2010-top-20-entrepreneurs-best-small-companies-10-top.htmlb

Forbes’ 100 best small companies:
 http://www.forbes.com/lists/2010/23/best-small-companies-10_rank.html