Development Services Specialist

The Development Services Specialist manages donor and gift database operations and provides comprehensive administrative and front-facing support to the Development Office. This role is responsible for processing gifts and pledges, maintaining accurate donor records, producing reports and mailing lists, and supporting prospect research efforts. The position also serves as a key liaison with the Business Office to ensure accurate gift reconciliation and allocation.

In addition, the Specialist helps create a welcoming office environment, supports events and alumni activities, and assists with general office and reception duties. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, discretion with confidential information, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Donor and Gift Database Management

• Process all gifts and pledges received through all channels, including online, mail, and in person
• Prepare and manage gift acknowledgement letters, gift receipts, and pledge reminders
• Serve as liaison to the Business Office in reconciling funds and ensuring accuracy in gift allocation
• Create and share queries, exports, call sheets, and mailing lists
• Produce analytical and financial reports and prepare data exports and donor lists, including lists and analysis for annual Report on Philanthropy
• Research constituents to qualify them for major and special gift cultivation and solicitation; identify potential new prospects, assess capacity and inclination; implement policies and procedures for successful prospect management and research efforts, ensuring that all legal privacy requirements are met and that ethical standards are upheld

Office Management

• Create a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the development office
• Greet visitors and ensure phone calls and email inquiries are always answered promptly
• Maintain clean and organized office space for visitors
• Keep supplies stocked in office closet
• Provide general office support to alumni and development office administrators as needed

Other Duties

• Assist with receptions, dinners, and alumni activities
• Provide front desk/reception support weekly
• Perform other duties as determined by the Director of Development and occasionally the Director

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent; college degree preferred
• Experience with database management required, experience with Raiser’s Edge preferred
• Accounting / bookkeeping and/or administrative office management experience preferred

Skills and Abilities

• Be a dependable professional with excellent organization skills, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude
• Possess strong computer skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Google Suite
• Manage confidential information with discretion
• Possess strong oral and written communication skills
• Be eager to learn, able to adapt to change, and committed to one’s own professional growth
• Work independently and flexibly in a fast-paced environment and able to juggle multiple priorities
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and other members of the USN community