Description

The WSU Foundation builds on the enthusiasm, pride and loyalty of the Cougar family to grow philanthropic relationships, broaden the base of alumni and donor engagement, and responsibly manage assets to advance WSU’s mission, vision and goals.

As the Director, Prospect Research & Analytics for the WSU Foundation, you will lead a high-performing team focused on identifying, evaluating, and delivering strategic insights on existing and potential major gift donors to support Washington State University’s philanthropic mission and Advancement Services’ fundraising goals. In this role you will provide leadership in the development and execution of prospect research, data analytics, portfolio strategy, and business process improvements. The Director plays a central role in ensuring actionable, data-informed decisions and measurable results in a fast-paced Advancement environment. 

• Additional Information: This is a full time (100% FTE), permanent position. Overtime eligibility will be determined based on final salary placement. 
• Start Date: Anticipated start date will be in January 2026.
• Location: This position is located in Pullman WA, and may be eligible for a remote or hybrid schedule.
• Monthly Salary: $6,012.09 - $9,403.52 | Commensurate with experience and qualifications. In accordance with RCW 49.58.110, the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate’s current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position. Successful candidates typically begin up to mid-point of the salary range. For additional information, please review WSU’s Administrative Professional Compensation.  
• Benefits: WSU offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes paid sick and vacation leave; paid holidays; medical, dental, life and disability insurance package for employees and dependents; retirement; deferred compensation, optional supplemental retirement accounts; training and development; and employee tuition waiver. For additional information, please review the detailed Summary of Benefits offered by WSU for AP staff and Total Compensation.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• Positions require a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and four (4) years of progressively responsible relevant experience, which has included at least one (1) year of managerial experience. A Master’s degree in a related field may be substituted for up to one (1) year of the required experience. Any combination of relevant education and professional experience may be substituted for the educational requirement on a yearforyear basis. Education and experience can be tailored to fit the specific organizational entity/directorial assignment. Positions may require applicable licensure and/or certification.
• 4 (four) or more years of progressive experience in relevant field defined as prospect research, analytics, or advancement services.
• Demonstrated success working with CRMs and complex databases (e.g., Advance, Blackbaud, Salesforce).
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience with oral presentations and written communications, including the ability and willingness to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability working with Prospect Development principles, trends, and operations.
• Proven ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise professional judgement, discretion, and leadership including the ability to work independently.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in public administration, library science, business analytics, nonprofit management, or related field.
• 3 (three) or more years of managerial experience.
• Experience in higher education, healthcare, or other nonprofit fundraising.
• Proficiency in predictive modeling, data visualization (e.g., Tableau), and report generation tools.
• Involvement in Apra or other professional prospect development organizations.
• Experience managing donor wealth screenings and/or predictive modeling of philanthropic efforts.
• Experience working in comprehensive campaigns.