Coordinator, Gift Planning in Champaign, Illinois at University of Illinois Foundation

Description

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS FOUNDATION

has an immediate opening for an

Coordinator, Communications

The University of Illinois Foundation (Foundation) is the official fundraising and private gift-receiving organization of the University of Illinois (University). It works closely with alumni and friends, faculty and staff, corporations and foundations, as well as campus development professionals to create fundraising programs and opportunities that benefit the University.

The Gift Planning Coordinator will support the Office of Gift Planning and Trust Services (“GPTS”), and specifically, the directors of gift planning, in serving the needs of our internal and external constituents. The Gift Planning Coordinator will support the technical and administrative elements of securing charitable gifts and will serve as a liaison with key university stakeholders and donors on behalf of gift planners. This position will also support follow-up with donors on marketing inquiries as directed by the gift planners and may carry a portfolio of donor prospects.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Leverage technology to elevate the GPTS’ strategy as it relates to the identification, qualification, cultivation, and solicitation of major/planned giving donors.
2. Provide support for daily operational processes and efficient management, workflow, and coordination of projects at the direction of the gift planners, marketers, and director of gift planning operations. This may include providing timely support for the gift planning team on CRM management, entry, and reporting in support of their advancement work. This also includes support for gift planners in the timely transmittal and submission of paperwork to accurately record gifts.
3. Support the design and development of donor proposals and illustrations, donor acknowledgement letters, and provide timely follow up to donors and major gift officers on charitable gift arrangements at the request of gift planners.
4. Effectively and efficiently communicate with university, GPTS colleagues, and donors to advance our fundraising efforts.
5. Evaluate and recommend additional methods for prospect engagement and stewardship.
6. Develops and maintains professional knowledge about tax laws, regulatory changes, industry best practices, standards, and other technical aspects of charitable gift planning.
7. Completes special projects and office support on behalf of GPTS as requested.
8. Exude UIF’s Culture Code by exemplifying integrity, practicing empathy, embracing collaboration, inspiring innovation, and enabling impact during interactions and communications with internal and external audiences.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree
• A dedication to and understanding of the skills required to build relationships with diverse audiences.
• High integrity and ability to adhere to strict confidentiality standards.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to synthesize data.
• Willingness to embrace innovative ideas to increase collaborative opportunities, expand relationships, and grow interpersonal communication skills.
• Results-driven, fast learner who is self-motivated, can concurrently manage and reprioritize multiple projects, and brings experience from a variety of functional areas across an enterprise.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Degree in accounting, information science, finance, financial planning, or communication.
• One year of experience in accounting, banking/trust, fundraising, data management, or data analytics.

Application Deadline: May 17, 2026

The starting salary range for this position is projected to be $48,000 - $53,000 per year. While our job postings include salary ranges, your compensation will be based on your specific experience and qualifications—we're not limited by these posted ranges.

You'll be inspired daily in our state-of-the-art, environmentally conscious workspace - a stunning LEED-certified building featuring contemporary amenities including an on-site wellness center and café with healthy dining options. We encourage work-life balance through our hybrid schedule for many positions, combining in-office collaboration with up to 2 days of remote work flexibility.