Advancement Prospect Manager/Researcher

Abilene Christian University•Abilene, TX

About The Position

At Abilene Christian University, advancement work fuels lives of purpose, leadership, and service around the world. As Prospect Manager, you’ll play a critical behind-the-scenes role in connecting the university’s mission with the people who make it possible—helping ensure that fundraising efforts are strategic, data-informed, and relationship-driven. This position partners closely with gift officers, advancement leadership, and the President’s Office to guide donor strategy, strengthen fundraising pipelines, and support campaigns and special initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required
A minimum of 3–5 years of experience in donor prospect management and research
Strong understanding of prospect research and fundraising best practices
Experience developing proactive strategies to identify major gift prospects
Familiarity with prospect research tools, CRMs, and databases
High level of discretion and professionalism with confidential information
Organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable
Curious, analytical, and motivated to learn
Able to manage multiple priorities with confidence
ACU is affiliated with the fellowship of the Church of Christ. This position requires the employee to be a professing Christian and to be willing to support the Christian mission of ACU.

Nice To Haves

Higher education fundraising experience preferred
Collaborative communicator who thrives in a team-oriented environment

Responsibilities

Shape Strong Fundraising Portfolios
Lead portfolio management for major, principal, and leadership annual giving programs
Assign and balance prospect portfolios to support effective relationship management
Meet regularly with gift officers to review portfolios, assess performance, and refine strategies
Facilitate prospect management meetings with the major gift team every 4-6 weeks.
Serve as a strategic thought partner, facilitating planning conversations with gift officers and campus leaders
Build and Manage the Donor Pipeline
Analyze wealth, giving history, and engagement data to inform prospect strategy and capacity ratings
Lead periodic wealth screening initiatives from audience selection through evaluation and reporting
Partner with the Prospect Researcher to move qualified prospects into active cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship
Monitor major and principal gift pipelines and review progress with advancement leadership
Support the President’s Engagement with Donors
Work with advancement leaders and the President’s Office to prioritize prospects for presidential travel
Assist in managing and tracking the president’s donor portfolio
Participate in regular meetings with the president and staff to align strategy and stay informed
Contribute to Campaigns and Special Projects
Lead prospect evaluation for campaigns, including planning pyramids and progress tracking
Research and vet potential candidates for the Governing Board
Provide timely research support for campus partners and leadership as needs arise
Collaborate with the Prospect Researcher to identify proactive research opportunities