Senior Development Officer

About us:

The University of Toronto Scarborough is a place of energy, enthusiasm and passion. Our commitment to inclusive excellence attracts the brightest learners, scholars and employees from around the globe. Our success has been made possible by the opportunity given to us by our Indigenous hosts to operate on their territory, and we cherish our continuing partnerships with these communities. The University of Toronto Scarborough is an exciting campus with unlimited potential. Join us on our journey.

Leading the fundraising and alumni relations activities for University of Toronto Scarborough, the Development & Alumni Relations Office (DARO) supports the campus and over 60,000 alumni. At this time, UTSC is undertaking an ambitious strategic plan with an approach of inspiring inclusive excellence. As we prepare for our next big challenge, DARO seeks an experienced, detail-oriented individual who exemplifies a customer-oriented, hospitality-focused approach to stakeholders.

Your opportunity:

The Senior Development Officer (SDO) is part of a team, working under the general direction of the Director of Development. The SDO will be responsible for identifying and cultivating a portfolio of prospects at the major gift level ($25,000+) on behalf of the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC). The incumbent will develop tailored programs and initiatives designed to increase the interest and involvement of donors and identify and cultivate, corporations, foundations, associations and individuals capable of making major gifts. The incumbent will meet with donors to identify, cultivate and solicit for support and interest in UTSC. The incumbent will also ensure proper stewardship takes place following a gift to maintain the donor’s involvement, interest and support. The SDO will also be responsible for preparing call reports, proposals, progress reports and prospect correspondence; collaborating with other members of the University’s Advancement community to develop and execute strategies, and realize goals. The SDO will be involved in the training of volunteers in cultivation and solicitation activities. The active involvement of key members of the university community and volunteers is essential to the overall success of such a program.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Assessing and selecting prospective donors using independent judgement
• Identifying, fostering and maintaining relationships with donors and prospects in support of the University’s priorities
• Assessing needs and contributing to the development and implementation of plans for prospect identification, cultivation, solicitation and recognition
• Developing tailored fundraising initiatives that support strategic initiatives
• Identifying, evaluating and recommending the necessary steps to bring the prospect closer to making a major financial commitment to the University
• Conducting advanced research and analysis from a variety of sources to provide detailed background data on donors
• Meeting face-to-face with current and potential donors to discuss giving interests and opportunities
• Writing briefing notes, solicitation plans and call reports to track donor interaction

Essential Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree or acceptable combination of equivalent education and experience.
• Minimum five (5) years of related experience in a fundraising role with proven track record of success in managing a substantial pool of major gift donors and prospective donors.
• Demonstrated experience in the identification, cultivation, solicitation of donors and prospective donors.
• Demonstrated development experience.
• Demonstrated success in building collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Proven ability to manage and motivate high net worth prospective donors, alumni and friends (i.e. volunteers).
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication (written and oral) and relationship management skills.
• Evidence of strong initiative, tact, diplomacy, judgement and decision making in complex environments with competing priorities.
• Demonstrated strategic, analytical and presentation sills within a major gift fundraising environment and the ability to interact with senior volunteers, donors and faculty members.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills; strong attention to detail.
• Strong computer skills including word processing, database software and spreadsheet programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Evidence of leadership, initiative, and creativity.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and results-oriented environment.
• Strong team player who values collaboration.
• Applicants are expected to show evidence of a commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and the promotion of a respectful and collegial learning and working environment.

Assets (Nonessential):

• Demonstrated experience in an academic fundraising environment would be preferred.
• Experience with corporate giving and foundations an asset.
• Familiarity with Arbor or similar CRM database.

To be successful in this role you will be:

• Achievement oriented
• Communicator
• Organized
• Resourceful
• Team player

NOTE: This is a 2-year TERM opportunity. A full job descriptions is available upon request from the UTSC HR Office.