The Bryant University Advancement team is committed to developing and strengthening alumni relationships by delivering meaningful engagement and inspiring philanthropy in service of Bryant’s interdisciplinary educational mission and the University’s strategic plan, Vision 2030  This position is responsible for building out the Bryant planned giving program, managing the recognition society for planned giving donors, cultivating and soliciting a  portfolio of planned giving prospects, and for collaborating with peer fundraisers to promote planned giving opportunities broadly across the alumni population. The incumbent will take the lead on implementing a comprehensive program to educate alumni and friends about charitable giving opportunities available via traditional vehicles like bequests, Lead and Remainder trusts as well as innovative strategies like fund partnerships and other illiquid assets. The ability of the Officer to engage potential contributors, determine their interest and match them to the needs of the University, and assist these individuals in making planned and/or blended gifts of $25,000 or more will be critical to Bryant’s success in the coming years.

Principal Accountabilities: 

• Design and implement an annual fundraising plan based on University objectives. Meet annual donor contact and fundraising goals.
• Travel extensively, including overnight and weekends, and attend University events to meet with donors/prospects to cultivate relationships and identify potential planned gift donors. Guide donors in creating estate gifts that support the donor’s philanthropic goals and intentions while supporting the University’s vision, ensuring the highest level of stewardship once these commitments are made.
• Develop and manage a portfolio of 200 – 250 rated individuals who have the capacity to make planned/deferred gifts. Management in this instance is defined as creating enduring relationships with and providing optimal service for each donor or prospect as that individual’s circumstances require, e.g., cultivation, stewardship, or solicitation.
• Assist with the creation and implementation of a comprehensive marketing strategy for the planned giving program that includes direct mail and e-mail, placement of articles and ads in publications and organizing educational programs and seminars for a wide range of constituents within the University community.
• Write detailed and timely reports on each contact and other reports as requested.
• Work with other University Advancement departments including Communications and Marketing, Alumni Relations, Development, and Advancement Services as appropriate, to design and implement a comprehensive stewardship program to properly steward donors through the 1863 Society and other appropriate communications, events and programs.
• Work closely with alumni and friends of the University and their financial advisors and attorneys regarding the structure of lifetime and testamentary plans that will benefit Bryant.  Provide opportunities for involvement among professional advisors at Bryant.
• Assist other offices within University Advancement as necessary to advance the goals of the division.
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with University faculty, staff, students, administrators, and professional staff and appropriate off-campus constituencies.
• Perform related duties as assigned

Qualifications: 

Training & Qualifications: This position is best filled by an individual with an undergraduate degree (graduate degree or planned giving certificate preferred); a minimum of three to five years of demonstrated success in planned giving fund raising, preferably in a higher education setting. Thorough knowledge of current laws related to planned gifts is required as is knowledge of industry trends and best practices for marketing and communicating with planned giving audiences. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with prospects, donors, and members of the Bryant community are essential.  Microsoft Office Suite and CRM Ellucian Database experience is a plus. Certain requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate persons with disabilities. Travel and non-standard hour are required

Bryant University recognizes that its position as a leader in higher education is greatly determined both by the diversity of its campus community and its intellectual endeavors. Its commitment to link academic and social diversity for the benefit of the learning and living environment reflects its belief that excellence and diversity are mutually reinforcing objectives. We are committed to building an equitable and inclusive campus community, one that values individual difference and fosters greater understanding of the many facets of diversity and other distinctive characteristics that make us different. We encourage applications from candidates with an appreciation for and understanding of diverse backgrounds and experiences. Learn more about our ongoing commitment to building a community of inclusive excellence.