Position Summary
The Advancement Services & Research Coordinator supports the operational, analytical, and prospect research functions of the ESU Foundation’s fundraising and donor relations efforts. This position plays a key role in maintaining data integrity, producing actionable analytics, coordinating departmental projects, and supporting the prospect research and portfolio management needs of the Major Gifts team. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, analytically minded, and able to balance independent research work with broader operational responsibilities in a fast-paced nonprofit environment.
Key Duties and responsibilities:
Data Management & Analytics
- Serve as the primary owner of constituent data hygiene, including routine cleanup, deduplication, deceased maintenance, address updates, and record standardization within Raiser’s Edge NXT
- Identify and resolve data discrepancies independently for routine issues; escalate complex or high-impact data problems to the Director of Advancement Services
- Fulfill a variety of data requests including mailing lists, email lists, constituent reports, and ad hoc queries, as assigned by the Director of Advancement Services
- Produce regular and ad hoc reports to support fundraising, stewardship, and leadership decision-making
- Assist in the development of dashboards and performance metrics to track campaign and portfolio activity
Prospect Research & Portfolio Management
- Conduct biographical, philanthropic, and financial research on prospective and current donors using tools such as iWave, LexisNexis, and internet research
- Prepare research profiles and briefings to support Major Gift Officer cultivation and solicitation strategies
- Research and monitor alumni and prospects for relevant news, job changes, board memberships, etc.
- Assist in the management and maintenance of MGO prospect portfolios, including moves management tracking and portfolio reviews
Operations & Project Coordination
- Assist in the coordination of Advancement Services projects from initiation through completion, tracking timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder communications
- Serve as a resource for staff on systems usage and data best practices
- Assist with planning and logistics for donor outreach activities and departmental initiatives
- Provide backup coverage for gift processing functions during staff absences, as needed
- Collaborate with Advancement Services, Finance, and gift processing staff to support operational consistency, process improvements, and alignment between fundraising records and related financial reporting processes
- Other duties as assigned
Qualifications and experience: Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills are essential. Requires close attention to detail, accurate data entry, and a high level of confidentiality. Prior work experience in higher education or not for profit a plus. Good time management, and ability to multi-task, work collaboratively and independently. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines. Aptitude for learning new software systems and technologies.
Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred, in business, information systems, communications, or a related field – or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Technical: Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, especially Excel. Experience with Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT or similar CRM platforms preferred. Exposure to or willingness to learn prospect research tools such as iWave, LexisNexis, or other wealth screening and internet research tools.
To Apply:
Application package must include:
- Cover letter indicating why you are interested in this position.
- Resume (please include start and end date of employment for each position)
- Names and contact information of three professional references.
See our webpage under Employment Opportunities for the email address to send along your cover letter and references.