Position Description

Reporting to the Vice President of Institutional Advancement, this position serves to develop and execute strategic, data-informed fundraising initiatives and programs that support the overall mission and goals of The University of West Alabama (UWA). This position works closely with Strategic Communications and Alumni Affairs to ensure a collaborative, multi-channel approach to fundraising. The Development Officer operates in a team setting to promote the University through research, prospecting, cultivation, and management of donor relationships, as well as coordination of fundraising activities and campaigns.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Vice President for Institutional Advancement and team to identify, cultivate, and solicit major and principal gift prospects.
• Manage a personal portfolio of high-capacity donors and prospects, including regular travel for in-person engagement.
• Develop and implement strategic, data-informed fundraising initiatives and campaigns.
• Utilize CRM data and donor analytics to track engagement, inform outreach strategies, and strengthen the donor pipeline.
• Support multi-channel fundraising efforts, including digital campaigns, email outreach, and donor communications.
• Build and maintain meaningful relationships with donors, alumni, and community stakeholders.
• Contribute to a comprehensive donor experience strategy, from identification through stewardship and long-term engagement.
• Assist in the preparation of proposals, reports, and presentations for priority funding opportunities.
• Support donor stewardship efforts, including acknowledgments, communications, and engagement activities.
• Actively support and assist the Advancement team with the planning and execution of events on behalf of the department, including donor events, alumni engagement activities, and fundraising initiatives.
• Assist with planning and execution of fundraising events, board meetings, and special initiatives.
• Partner with Advancement team units (Annual Giving, Donor Relations, Strategic Communications, Alumni Affairs) to maximize fundraising outcomes.
• Support planned giving efforts, including donor conversations and long-term giving strategies.
• Assist with Annual Fund and annual giving campaign activities, including outreach and donor engagement.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of donor interactions and activities.
• Prepare reports, budgets, scholarship agreements, and other documentation as needed.
• Supervise student assistants as assigned.
• Ensure timely and professional communication with internal and external stakeholders.
• Serve on university committees as assigned.
• Perform other duties as needed to support the mission of the Advancement Office.

Qualifications

Required:

Bachelor’s Degree.
Experience working in a professional environment.

Desired:

Master’s Degree.
Experience with Raiser’s Edge or a similar database.
Experience working with volunteer groups.
Two years of fundraising, development, or sales experience in a progressively responsible position.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Proficiency with, or ability to learn, database management systems such as Raiser’s Edge and other business software.
• Ability to utilize data and donor insights to inform strategy and prioritize outreach.
• General understanding of marketing, public relations, and standard business practices.
• Initiative and self-direction with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Adaptability with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to travel and work extended hours, including nights and weekends.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.

University of West Alabama

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Development Officer