Development Research Analyst

University Of Michigan - Ann Arbor, MI

Full-time - Mid Level

Remote - Ann Arbor, MI

Educational Services

About the position

The Development Research Analyst at the University of Michigan plays a crucial role in supporting the Michigan Medicine Office of Development by partnering with assigned gift teams to identify and fulfill their prospect information needs. This position involves gathering, analyzing, and summarizing data to aid in the cultivation and solicitation of top prospects, ensuring that the development teams have the necessary information to meet their fundraising goals. The analyst is responsible for managing their own workload independently while assisting the Assistant Director and contributing to the growth of the Prospect Development team. The role requires on-site work three days a week at the Michigan Medicine Development offices, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and communication within the team. In this position, the analyst will conduct both reactive and proactive research, employing innovative methods to secure critical information that supports effective solicitation strategies. This includes estimating donor gift capacity through the analysis of complex financial and philanthropic data, identifying potential areas of philanthropic interest, and writing confidential research documents for development staff and senior executives. The analyst will also participate in projects aimed at improving the understanding and strategic use of development data among development officers, ensuring that they receive appropriate support and guidance. The role also encompasses professional and team development responsibilities, where the analyst will independently plan and coordinate multiple tasks, prioritize work to meet departmental goals, and maintain high standards in prospect research. They will serve as an internal consultant, lead peer education sessions, and collaborate with colleagues across departments to enhance the overall effectiveness of the Development Research team. Adherence to ethical guidelines and the confidentiality of donor information is paramount in this role, as is the commitment to ongoing professional development and engagement with relevant professional associations.

Responsibilities

• Assess and meet the prospect identification and information needs of assigned Michigan Medicine Office of Development gift teams.
• Initiate regular communications with development officers to stay updated on their fundraising initiatives.
• Support prospect strategizing and consult with development officers on research requests and special projects.
• Conduct reactive and proactive research to identify potential donors and their philanthropic interests.
• Estimate donor gift capacity through analysis of financial and philanthropic information.
• Write confidential research documents on individual, corporate, and foundation prospects for development staff and executives.
• Manage special projects and submit completed research for data entry into the development database.
• Plan, organize, and coordinate multiple tasks to accomplish departmental goals.
• Lead peer education sessions and promote professional development within the team.
• Safeguard the confidentiality of donor information and adhere to ethical guidelines.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree is required.
• At least three years of work experience in development research or a related field.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills and excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Aptitude for critical thinking and problem-solving under pressure.
• Highly developed scanning, skimming, and reading comprehension skills.
• Ability to assess, synthesize, and summarize relevant information into coherent documents.
• Commitment to professional ethics and confidentiality.
• Ability to interact with executive-level clients.
• Strong computing and online research skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and relational database software.

Nice-to-haves

• An advanced degree is desirable.
• Familiarity with the University organization, policies, and procedures is desirable.

Benefits

• Free parking for staff.
• Flexible work opportunities based on business needs.