Senior Prospect Development Analyst, University Initiatives-UIC at University of Illinois Foundation – Chicago, Illinois

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS FOUNDATION

has an immediate opening for an

Senior Prospect Development Analyst, University Initiatives-UIC

The University of Illinois Foundation is the official fundraising and private gift-receiving organization of the University of Illinois. 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 Senior Prospect Development Analyst, University Initiatives, supports university-wide fundraising efforts by leading research initiatives focused on principal and chancellor-level prospects. Reporting to the Director of Research and Portfolio Management, UIF with a dotted reporting line to the Senior Director of Development, University Initiatives, this position serves as the lead researcher for top-tier prospects and will primarily focus on principal gift-level prospect identification, research, and reporting, and will monitor and offer strategic consultative support for the development of the principal gift pipeline. This position will combine reactive research with proactive discovery to identify individuals and organizations with the capacity and alignment to make a significant impact on UIC’s mission.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serve as the lead researcher for university-wide initiatives, principal gifts, and chancellor-level prospects, delivering comprehensive, strategic research to inform high-level cultivation and solicitation strategies.
• Proactively identify new high-net-worth individuals, foundations, and organizations aligned with UIC’s mission and strategic priorities.
• Collaborate with the senior director of development for university initiatives and director of principal gift engagement to provide insight and recommendations on prospects’ interests, giving capacity, philanthropic affiliations, and potential pathways to engagement.
• Develop detailed prospect profiles and briefing information in support of major, principal and transformational gift activities.
• Monitor philanthropic trends, industry news, and donor movement to identify emerging opportunities and challenges for engagement.
• Maintain University of Illinois Foundation standards, in accordance with University of Illinois Development Policies, Processes and Procedures, and maintain high standards for data accuracy, privacy and compliance in all research and prospect development activities.
• Leverage internal database, external tools, and analytical resources to develop insights on wealth, capacity and philanthropic alignment.
• Support senior leadership with tailored research deliverables to guide high-level engagement strategies.
• Monitor daily media alerts on top prospects and share information relevant to prospect strategies with appropriate team members.
• Establish a deep understanding of the top prospects and ensure that research and information in all systems is kept current and available. Read contact reports related to all top prospects.
• Maintain the highest standards of discretion and confidentiality.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• A minimum of 8 years of experience in prospect research, prospect development, or related advancement roles, preferably in a complex academic or research environment.
• Demonstrated experience conducting high-level research for principal and transformative gift prospects.
• Deep knowledge of wealth screening tools, databases and CRM systems (e.g., Blackbaud).
• Proven ability to synthesize complex data into concise, strategic recommendations for senior stakeholders.
• Knowledge of evaluating and analyzing financial information including SEC filings, government documents, deeds and property tax assessments, and other wealth documents to assess potential philanthropic capacity.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present findings to a range of audiences including senior leadership.
• Strong understanding of fundraising and development strategy, particularly within principal and major gift contexts.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or relevant certifications in research, library science, nonprofit management, or related fields preferred.

Application Deadline: January 4th, 2026

The starting salary range for this position is projected to be $62,000 - $68,000 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.

Your comprehensive benefits package includes medical, vision, and dental coverage, company paid life insurance, generous vacation time including 24 days annually, and more. Generous pension benefits are also included. We invest in your present and future wellbeing, providing the support you need to succeed.

Application Process: For full consideration for the role, all candidates must complete an online application and include a cover letter and resume. Candidates may create a profile through https://jobs.uif.uillinois.edu. For further information regarding application procedures, contact Foundation Human Resources at uifhrsearches@uif.uillinois.edu.

THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS FOUNDATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER