University of South Carolina
Director of Prospect Research
🇺🇸 Columbia, SC
🕑 Full-Time
💰 $79K
💻 Development & Advancement
🗓️ January 12th, 2026
Blackbaud
CRM
Edtech.com's Summary
University of South Carolina is hiring a Director of Prospect Research. The Director leads and manages the Research team, developing strategies to enhance private support and engagement for the University. They oversee research on prospective donors, collaborate with various university stakeholders, and ensure the accuracy and quality of fundraising program deliverables.
Highlights
- Oversee and manage the Research team to support university fundraising efforts and ensure timely deliverables.
- Manage research assignments and communicate changes effectively within the team.
- Conduct high-level research on individuals, corporations, and foundations to assess financial capacity and philanthropic interests.
- Serve as liaison to development directors and collaborate on solicitation strategy and portfolio development.
- Assign prospect referrals and maintain research data flow through the CRM system.
- Participate in portfolio meetings to provide strategic assessment of prospect behavior and donor trends.
- Bachelor's degree with at least 5 years of related experience; supervisory experience preferred.
- Preferred experience with Blackbaud CRM, advanced data analysis, and fundraising databases.
- Strong skills in research methods, ethical fundraising, project management, and technology training.
- Starting salary $79,302 with benefits including health insurance, retirement programs, paid leave, tuition assistance, and professional development opportunities.
Director of Prospect Research Full Description
Director of Prospect Research
Please see Special Instructions for more details.
Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by February 16, 2026
The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to:
- Health and Life Insurance
- Retirement Programs
- Paid Tuition
- Dependent Scholarships
- Annual Leave
- Sick Leave
- 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday)
- Paid Parental Leave
- Professional Development Opportunities
Click here to learn more about why you should work at USC.
Posting Details
Posting Summary
Logo |
Posting Number | STA00016PO26
Job Family | Alumni Relations and Development
Job Function | Development
USC Market Title | Director, Prospect Development
Link to USC Market Title | https://uscjobs.sc.edu/titles/157824
Job Level | M2 - Managerial
Business Title (Internal Title) | Director of Prospect Research
Campus | Columbia
Work County | Richland
College/Division | Division of Development
Department | DEV Advancement Services
State Pay Band | 8
Approved Starting Salary | $79,302
Advertised Salary Range | $79,302 - commensurate with qualifications.
Location of Vacancy | Columbia, SC **On-site**
Part/Full Time | Full Time
Hours per Week | 37.5
Work Schedule | Standard working schedule: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Basis | 12 months
Job Search Category | Alumni Development
Posting Number | STA00016PO26
Job Family | Alumni Relations and Development
Job Function | Development
USC Market Title | Director, Prospect Development
Link to USC Market Title | https://uscjobs.sc.edu/titles/157824
Job Level | M2 - Managerial
Business Title (Internal Title) | Director of Prospect Research
Campus | Columbia
Work County | Richland
College/Division | Division of Development
Department | DEV Advancement Services
State Pay Band | 8
Approved Starting Salary | $79,302
Advertised Salary Range | $79,302 - commensurate with qualifications.
Location of Vacancy | Columbia, SC **On-site**
Part/Full Time | Full Time
Hours per Week | 37.5
Work Schedule | Standard working schedule: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Basis | 12 months
Job Search Category | Alumni Development
About USC
About University of South Carolina | From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Veterans' Preference Statement | The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.
Veterans' Preference Statement | The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.
Benefits for FTE Positions
The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.
The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.
Position Description
Advertised Job Summary | Under limited supervision, reporting to the Executive Director of Prospect Development (Executive Director), the Director of Prospect Research (Director) serves as an essential member of the Advancement Services team to establish overall goals and strategies for increasing private support and engagement for the University. This position’s duties and responsibilities sustain the productivity and growth of the Research team, providing ongoing support to university-wide fundraising initiatives. The Director promotes the University’s effectiveness in understanding the financial capacity and philanthropic interests of alumni, parents, donors, corporations, and foundations. The Director is responsible for leading and managing the Research team while working collaboratively with leadership, the Director of Prospect Strategy, and other stakeholders in the division. Responsibilities include ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and quality of program deliverables. Maintains close working relationships with other Advancement Services, development officers, unit directors, the Alumni Association, and other operations around campus involved in fundraising initiatives. The Director serves as a leader within the Prospect Development team.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience | Requires a bachelor’s degree in a job related field and 5 or more years of job related experience, which may be substituted by an equivalent combination of job related certification, training, education, and/or experience.
Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials |
Preferred Qualifications | Bachelor’s degree with 5 years of related experience with prospect research, prospect development, advancement services, fundraising, corporate relations or a related field. Experience working in a higher education (or comparably complex organization) setting, or in a non-profit and/or healthcare industries. Direct experience in relationship management, prospect research, development, sales, marketing, business administration, or project management. Blackbaud CRM or other fundraising database experience desirable. Demonstrated experience in data analysis, advanced analytical tools and databases, internet resources, and other references.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities | Strong knowledge of Research, Prospect Management, and Prospect Tracking principles and methods. Knowledge of process, ethics, and policies of professional fundraising. Adherence to CASE standards and commonly accepted industry standards relating to fundraising reporting is expected of all fundraisers. Ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals internally and externally to the University. High-level customer service skills and customer service ethic; sets high standards and seeks ways to improve service. Adept at problem-solving and using judgment in situations requiring initiative and tact. Must manage time well, particularly while managing competing priorities and meeting frequent deadlines, demonstrating strong project management skills. Ability to implement and train others in new technology tools. Demonstrated commitment and leadership ability to advance diversity and inclusion. Ability to keep accurate records and complete timely reports. Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to learn and increase knowledge and understanding of University policies and procedures. Ability to analyze and synthesize information, set priorities, and meet deadlines. Respond to a broad spectrum of high-priority assignments, as requested. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Solid database management and spreadsheet software knowledge: experience with Excel, Access, and other information management databases (to be used to join and analyze data from multiple tables) and ability to adapt to and use future technologies. Ability to prioritize duties and achieve planned goals for a complex program. Ability to travel overnight to conferences work evenings, and weekends, as needed. Must have reliable means of transportation. Adhere to the University and the Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement (APRA) ethical and confidentiality guidelines.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience | Requires a bachelor’s degree in a job related field and 5 or more years of job related experience, which may be substituted by an equivalent combination of job related certification, training, education, and/or experience.
Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials |
Preferred Qualifications | Bachelor’s degree with 5 years of related experience with prospect research, prospect development, advancement services, fundraising, corporate relations or a related field. Experience working in a higher education (or comparably complex organization) setting, or in a non-profit and/or healthcare industries. Direct experience in relationship management, prospect research, development, sales, marketing, business administration, or project management. Blackbaud CRM or other fundraising database experience desirable. Demonstrated experience in data analysis, advanced analytical tools and databases, internet resources, and other references.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities | Strong knowledge of Research, Prospect Management, and Prospect Tracking principles and methods. Knowledge of process, ethics, and policies of professional fundraising. Adherence to CASE standards and commonly accepted industry standards relating to fundraising reporting is expected of all fundraisers. Ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals internally and externally to the University. High-level customer service skills and customer service ethic; sets high standards and seeks ways to improve service. Adept at problem-solving and using judgment in situations requiring initiative and tact. Must manage time well, particularly while managing competing priorities and meeting frequent deadlines, demonstrating strong project management skills. Ability to implement and train others in new technology tools. Demonstrated commitment and leadership ability to advance diversity and inclusion. Ability to keep accurate records and complete timely reports. Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to learn and increase knowledge and understanding of University policies and procedures. Ability to analyze and synthesize information, set priorities, and meet deadlines. Respond to a broad spectrum of high-priority assignments, as requested. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Solid database management and spreadsheet software knowledge: experience with Excel, Access, and other information management databases (to be used to join and analyze data from multiple tables) and ability to adapt to and use future technologies. Ability to prioritize duties and achieve planned goals for a complex program. Ability to travel overnight to conferences work evenings, and weekends, as needed. Must have reliable means of transportation. Adhere to the University and the Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement (APRA) ethical and confidentiality guidelines.
Job Duties
Job Duty | Provide oversight and management of the Research team to support the university’s ongoing fundraising efforts. Use established systems to monitor schedules and work completion; initiate corrective actions to ensure accurate and timely deliverables. Responsible for hiring, onboarding, and ongoing training of new staff. Responsible for assessing and evaluating individual and team performance against established performance metrics and goals.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 20%Job Duty | Manage and consistently communicate changes in research assignments, projects, expectations, or desired outcomes to all staff involved in accomplishing new priorities. Oversees the process of prompt responses to research requests submitted through CRM and assigns to team members as appropriate. Develop and implement new and improved research processes, encouraging staff to collaborate in a team environment focusing on accomplishing impactful goals.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 20%Job Duty | Provide high-level research on individuals, corporations, and foundations using various biographical, organizational, and financial sources, including state-of-the-art online database services, websites, libraries, government sources, and other external public information repositories. Analyze and synthesize accumulated information to assess financial capacity, philanthropic tendencies, giving propensity, and linkages to campus. Evaluate research results to develop and implement further research strategies utilizing ethical intelligence-gathering techniques of the information profession.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 20%Job Duty | Serve as a liaison to a portfolio of development directors. Collaborate and consult with diverse campus contacts, including development officers, development staff, and other University staff, on matters related to portfolio development, solicitation strategy formulation, and information gathering through peer screenings. Interpret results and provide direction on segmenting and managing large groups of prospects and donors identified through the electronic screening process.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 15%Job Duty | Assign prospect referrals to development officers and be responsible for maintaining the research flow of data and information from identification to gift by providing research information, updating, and tracking changes in the database, and making recommendations related to the assignment of prospects as well as post-assignment research and detailed financial analysis. Provide oversight for removing and re-assigning individual, corporate, and foundation prospect referrals.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 10%Job Duty | Actively participate in scheduled portfolio meetings with fundraisers, prospect managers, and leadership and provide a strategic assessment of prospect and donor behavior and trends to inform decision-making.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 10%Job Duty | Accepts and implements other specific assignments as directed.
Essential Function | No
Percentage of Time | 5%
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 20%Job Duty | Manage and consistently communicate changes in research assignments, projects, expectations, or desired outcomes to all staff involved in accomplishing new priorities. Oversees the process of prompt responses to research requests submitted through CRM and assigns to team members as appropriate. Develop and implement new and improved research processes, encouraging staff to collaborate in a team environment focusing on accomplishing impactful goals.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 20%Job Duty | Provide high-level research on individuals, corporations, and foundations using various biographical, organizational, and financial sources, including state-of-the-art online database services, websites, libraries, government sources, and other external public information repositories. Analyze and synthesize accumulated information to assess financial capacity, philanthropic tendencies, giving propensity, and linkages to campus. Evaluate research results to develop and implement further research strategies utilizing ethical intelligence-gathering techniques of the information profession.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 20%Job Duty | Serve as a liaison to a portfolio of development directors. Collaborate and consult with diverse campus contacts, including development officers, development staff, and other University staff, on matters related to portfolio development, solicitation strategy formulation, and information gathering through peer screenings. Interpret results and provide direction on segmenting and managing large groups of prospects and donors identified through the electronic screening process.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 15%Job Duty | Assign prospect referrals to development officers and be responsible for maintaining the research flow of data and information from identification to gift by providing research information, updating, and tracking changes in the database, and making recommendations related to the assignment of prospects as well as post-assignment research and detailed financial analysis. Provide oversight for removing and re-assigning individual, corporate, and foundation prospect referrals.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 10%Job Duty | Actively participate in scheduled portfolio meetings with fundraisers, prospect managers, and leadership and provide a strategic assessment of prospect and donor behavior and trends to inform decision-making.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 10%Job Duty | Accepts and implements other specific assignments as directed.
Essential Function | No
Percentage of Time | 5%
Position Attributes
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.
Safety Sensitive or Security Sensitive | No
Hazardous weather category | Non-Essential
Hazardous weather category | Non-Essential
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies | 1
Desired Start Date | 03/16/2026
Job Open Date | 01/09/2026
Job Close Date | 02/16/2026
Open Until Filled | No
Special Instructions to Applicant | Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by February 16, 2026
The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to:
Health and Life Insurance Retirement Programs Paid Tuition Dependent Scholarships Annual Leave Sick Leave 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday) Paid Parental Leave Professional Development Opportunities
Click here to learn more about why you should work at USC.
Quicklink for Posting | https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/201157
EEO Statement | The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Desired Start Date | 03/16/2026
Job Open Date | 01/09/2026
Job Close Date | 02/16/2026
Open Until Filled | No
Special Instructions to Applicant | Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by February 16, 2026
The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to:
Health and Life Insurance Retirement Programs Paid Tuition Dependent Scholarships Annual Leave Sick Leave 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday) Paid Parental Leave Professional Development Opportunities
Click here to learn more about why you should work at USC.
Quicklink for Posting | https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/201157
EEO Statement | The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
- * Do you have at least a Bachelor's degree in a job related field and 5 or more years of job related experience, which may be substituted by an equivalent combination of job related certification, training, education, and/or experience?
- Yes
- No
- * If so, please tell us how you qualify?
(Open Ended Question) - * How many years of supervisory work experience do you have?
- 0 - 3 years of supervisory work experience
- 3 - 5 years of supervisory work experience
- 5 - 7 years of supervisory work experience
- More than 7 years of supervisory work experience
- * Are you willing to travel during the day, travel overnight, work evenings and weekends as part of the requirements for this position?
- no response
- Yes
- No
- * Do you have a reliable means of transportation?
- Yes
- No
- * Although we accept resumes for review, the application is the official hiring document maintained by the university. Offers of employment and starting salaries are based on the education and work experience (including beginning and end dates) included in the university application only, not your resume. Have you included all details for all education, volunteer and work experiences in your job application?
- Yes
- No
- No Answer
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- List of References and Contact Information
Optional Documents
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