Director, Research - University Advancement

Position: Director, Advancement Research - University Advancement
Carnegie Mellon University is world-renowned as the birthplace of artificial intelligence, and that spirit of innovation is the heartbeat of our University Advancement division. As we enter a transformative era of philanthropy, we are seeking a Director of Advancement Research who will not only lead our research efforts but also serve as a pioneer in integrating AI and emerging technologies into our strategic operations.

The Director will support a modern research program that leverages emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, and advanced research platforms to surface donor opportunities, enhance prospect strategy, and improve decision-making across Advancement. The successful candidate will translate complex data into actionable insights that meaningfully support cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts.

Key Responsibilities include:

* Designing, developing, and overseeing a proactive, modern prospect research and identification program using modern technologies, artificial intelligence and data analytics that is aligned with institutional and advancement goals.

* Championing the adoption of AI-powered tools, predictive analytics, and emerging technologies to automate prospect identification, uncover new donor patterns, and enhance research productivity.

* Leading and managing the advancement research department, including staff supervision, mentoring, goal setting, and performance management, while ensuring priorities and deadlines are met.

* Identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and impact through innovative workflows, new methodologies, new technologies and benchmarking against peer institutions.

* Ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and ethical use of all research data, maintaining strong internal controls for sensitive and confidential information.

* Collaborating closely with advancement leadership, prospect management, and donor services to develop creative approaches for identifying and advancing major gift prospects.

* Overseeing the development, documentation, and ongoing maintenance of research policies, procedures, profiles, and analytical reports that support division-wide strategy.

* Staying current on research resources, industry standards, and ethical guidelines (APRA, CASE, AFP, etc.), and communicate best practices to staff.

* Attending professional training annually with emphasis on emerging trends, AI tools, and technological advancements in prospect research.

* Serving as a key member of the prospect strategy team and contribute to broader division planning, goal-setting, and continuous improvement efforts.

* Performing additional duties as assigned.

Adaptability, excellence, and integrity are essential qualities at Carnegie Mellon University. We seek a leader who can engage effectively with a wide range of internal and external partners, who values innovation, emerging technologies, and collaboration, and who is committed to advancing the mission of the university through ethical, data-informed philanthropy.

You should demonstrate:

* Experience in implementing best practices to leverage existing programs and processes for potential efficiencies using technology, artificial intelligence and other emerging trends.

* Innovation and curiosity and the ability to manage the pace of change.

* Exceptional verbal, written and interpersonal skills.

* Excellence in Change Management, ensuring team buy-in and seamless adoption when pivoting to new tools or methodologies.

* Change management skills.

* Ability to understand and translate complex SEC filings such as proxy statements, prospectus, 10K and 8K filings.

* Deep proficiency in all facets of advancement research, including wealth screening, relationship mapping, and philanthropic propensity modeling.

* High emotional intelligence with a demonstrated ability to navigate high-pressure situations and interact with challenging stakeholders while maintaining professionalism.

* Ability to demonstrate judgment and discretion in dealing with sensitive information and data privacy.

* Refined analytical skills and ability to coordinate, analyze, and synthesize vast amounts of information and present…