Project Manager, University Major Gifts

The Office of Development (OOD) advances Stanford’s mission by raising philanthropic support from alumni, parents, families, friends, and institutional funders. Working in concert with volunteers and academic leaders, OOD staff members strive to accelerate Stanford’s purposeful impact in the world. Stanford is committed to a donor-centric approach to development. Every member of the Office of Development staff plays a role in providing the university’s donors with the service and attention that ensures an exceptionally positive and fulfilling philanthropic experience.  

Within this framework, we seek experienced candidates for a Project Manager  to join the University Major Gifts (UMG) team. The ideal candidate for this position has a strong belief in the importance of philanthropy and is willing to jump in and learn new processes and systems. Candidates must have excellent communication and data analysis skills, enjoy working with a wide variety of people, and can multi-task and prioritize quickly and professionally in response to requests. Preferably, they are creative and have the ability to think outside the box, are comfortable working with high-level volunteers and donors, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.  

JOB PURPOSE: 

The Project Manager will provide support for fundraising programs and activities within the University Major Gifts program (primarily focused on securing gifts of $250K+). Work with major gift officers, donors, volunteers, and other university staff to assist in establishing and maintaining relationships with all university constituencies. This position reports to the Regional Director of Development and collaborates closely with major gift officers covering the Southern California Region.   

CORE DUTIES*: 

• Support a team of major gift officers in fundraising programs and activities. 

• Retrieve information about prospects and donors, manage data input, and generate complex reports using the university external relations database (Salesforce) and financial reporting systems. 

• Troubleshoot gift and payment issues, ensuring accurate donor record keeping, and driving complex administrative issues to resolution. 

• Draft and help prepare polished materials, including: detailed donor visit briefings for senior academic leadership, background documents, gift acknowledgements and stewardship materials.   

• Partner with gift officers, stewardship, marketing and event planning staff in the planning and implementation of donor cultivation and stewardship, alumni, and special recognition events. 

• Assist Regional Director of Development in managing pipeline of prospects for major gift cultivation. 

• Provide development program reporting and analysis to support fundraising strategies.

• Track, analyze and report on fundraising progress against goals and objectives for specific programs, as assigned. 

• Assist Regional Director of Development in managing regional volunteer activities during a campaign. 

• Demonstrate a commitment to promoting and supporting an environment of diversity and inclusion. 

* - Other duties may also be assigned.  

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 

Education & Experience: 

Bachelor’s degree and two years of relevant experience or combination of education and relevant experience.    

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Advanced ability with Microsoft Office suite. 

• Proficiency with database systems, such as Salesforce. Ability to acquire proficiency in Stanford information and financial systems. 

• Strong data analysis skills including experience gathering, organizing, and analyzing data, and communicating/presenting results and recommendations in a succinct fashion to key stakeholders. 

• Ability to work efficiently, juggle tasks simultaneously, meet deadlines, and achieve goals. 

• Excellent interpersonal skills, and ability to interact with a wide range of people and both internal and external constituents. 

• Outstanding communication skills (written and oral). 

• Exceptional attention to detail and follow-through. 

• Exercise discretion in working with confidential and sensitive information. 

Certifications and Licenses: 

Valid California Non-commercial Class Driver’s License.  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*: 

• Frequently perform desk-based computer tasks, sit, and use a telephone, stand/walk. 

• Occasionally light/fine grasping, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 10 pounds, writing by hand. 

• Ability to obtain and maintain a California Non-commercial Class license. 

* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job. 

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

• May require working flexible hours, including nights and weekends. 

WORK STANDARDS: 

• When conducting university business, must comply with the California Vehicle Code and Stanford University driving requirements. 

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations. 

• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. 

• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu . 

WHY STANFORD IS FOR YOU: 

Stanford University is one of the world’s premier academic and research institutions, devoting tremendous intellectual and physical resources toward the betterment of humanity. As a major Silicon Valley employer, Stanford seeks people committed to excellence and to improving our world. In turn, the university is committed to supporting its employees as they develop their careers and enrich their lives.  We believe Stanford’s future success will be shaped by the diverse perspectives, unique experiences, and inclusive culture of its community.

Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks  empower you with: 

• Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak. 

• A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources. 

• A healthier you. Climb our rock wall, or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits. 

• Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.  

• Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more 

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned. 

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.