Philanthropy Officer

Through research, teaching and public service, graduate education creates knowledge that leads to innovative solutions to address critical societal needs. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers more than 80 programs that grant more than 160 graduate degrees and graduate students make up nearly 30% of enrolled students at UNC-Chapel Hill.

The Graduate School of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill provides leadership to envision, shape and support the highest quality education for a diverse community of graduate students whose contributions will have global impact. Drawing on best practices gleaned from graduate educators throughout the country, The Graduate School models the inclusive and equitable policies and practices that the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill strives to instill in every unit, department, and program at this great University.

The Graduate School supports graduate students in almost every program across the Carolina campus and serves students from admission through graduation. We provide financial support (e.g. interdisciplinary fellowships, tuition support, travel awards, and research supplements), career and professional development (e.g. in pedagogy, leadership, communication, grant writing), diversity and student success programming, academic program support, and advocacy to students, faculty, staff, and graduate programs. The Graduate School also provides individual students with services tailored to meet their needs.

The Graduate School is seeking a dedicated Philanthropy Officer to join our team and support the Chief Development Officer in driving fundraising efforts for The Graduate School. This role involves assisting in the development and execution of a strategic solicitation plan to meet fundraising goals. The Philanthropy Officer will cultivate and maintain relationships with prospective donors through in-person, virtual, and phone meetings, with a focus on securing donations and commitments of $5,000 or more, and completing at least 150 face-to-face donor visits annually.

Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, the Philanthropy Officer will be an integral member of the Development team in The Graduate School. The Philanthropy Officer will be responsible for developing and executing a leadership annual and major gift fundraising strategy to support the mission of The Graduate School. In this role, the Philanthropy Officer will work collaboratively to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward leadership and major gift prospects.

Key responsibilities include managing a portfolio of alumni, faculty, staff, and supporters of graduate education. The role emphasizes relationship-building and securing contributions through ongoing, personalized engagement. The Philanthropy Officer will also collaborate with the University Development Office and other teams to foster long-term donor relationships and support key fundraising initiatives for university projects and campaigns that focus on graduate and professional students. Additionally, the position involves partnering with the Chief Development Officer to develop fundraising strategies and plans in alignment with The Graduate School's goals and the upcoming comprehensive capital campaign.

Minimum of a bachelor's degree required (or foreign degree equivalent) with related experience. For positions with responsibility for direct solicitation of gifts and funds, a minimum of 1 year of professional-level, direct solicitation/fundraising experience is required.

* Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
* Ability to work in a collaborative environment.
* Ability to meet deadlines, and the ability to articulate persuasive messages effectively in writing and verbal presentations.
* Proficiency in computer databases and word processing software.
* Ability to travel and work evenings and weekends as necessary.

Ability to interact effectively in a comprehensive research university setting. Familiarity with the University's academic and administrative offices and their functions; knowledge of and ability to tap resources within the University community. Fundraising experience and/or related and transferable skills.