Major Gift Discovery Officer

Major Gift Discovery Officer

Kent State University

Department of Annual Giving Programs

Division of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement

Kent, OH (hybrid work schedule)

To assist in the planning and implementation of Kent State University's strategic donor pipeline program. Engage donors and prospects to determine their level of philanthropic interest while cultivating meaningful relationships that increase annual philanthropic support and long-term engagement. Utilize a donor-centric approach to pre-qualify new prospects, re-engage past donors, manage a portfolio of leadership annual giving donors and identify individuals with the philanthropic capacity to make major gifts.

Serve as a critical bridge between Annual Giving and Major Gifts by strengthening donor retention, increasing leadership annual giving and preparing qualified donors for successful transition to Philanthropic Advisors. Reports to designated supervisor in the Division of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement.

Aid in the execution of a robust discovery program, helping to establish processes and procedures for the handling of prospects that are willing to take a personal visit or call by a Philanthropic Advisor for further engagement, cultivation and solicitation. Develop, direct and implement pre-qualification strategies for major gift prospects through discovery calls, personal visits, virtual engagement, and email. Assist in the strategy and execution of solicitations.

Manage a dynamic portfolio of prospects with interests across the university. Work closely with the Prospect Management team and Philanthropic Advisors to expand the donor base and build a robust pipeline for major gift support for the university. Collaborate with communications and outreach, annual giving and philanthropic advisors to ensure consistency of fundraising message and to enhance the impact of the overall university campaign.

Identify opportunities and coordinate strategies to broaden the prospect’s relationship with the university through additional engagement with institutional partners. Maintain data integrity of prospect records, including entering and updating contact entries, next steps, and strategic donor plans and proposals according to established protocols. Communicate effectively and work collaboratively with Portfolio Development to align prospects with their level and area of philanthropic passion.

Monitor prospect qualification results to determine progress towards annual goals; provide regular reports as requested. Perform related duties as assigned.

Bachelor's degree in a marketing, communications or relevant field and one year of related experience in areas including but not limited to fundraising or sales. Must be able to work a flexible schedule including some evenings and weekends.

Equal Opportunity / Assertive Action Employer / Disabled / Veterans