Development Associate, Academic Initiatives

Brown University; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University is seeking a Development Associate in Providence, RI, to provide comprehensive fundraising and high-level administrative support across multiple academic initiatives. The role involves managing major gift pipelines and collaborating with program directors for effective solicitation and stewardship.

Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's degree and at least two years of related experience. Strong communication skills and proficiency in Microsoft platforms are essential. The position offers a dynamic work environment supporting a diverse community.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least two (2) years of experience in fundraising or relevant fields.

Responsibilities

• Manage major gift pipelines and provide updates to fundraisers.
• Support annual fund activities and coordinate events.
• Facilitate gift reports and analyses related to fundraising.

Skills

Excellent written and oral communication skills

Attention to detail

Proficiency in Microsoft platforms

Ability to analyze data

Customer-focused orientation

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Tools

BSR Advance CRM

Job description

The Development Associate provides comprehensive fundraising and high-level administrative support for development efforts across multiple academic initiatives. The Associate works closely with two Academic Initiatives Directors of Development, managing cultivation, solicitation, stewardship, and portfolio stewardship for up to four initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Manage major gift pipelines and provide program updates to fundraisers for cultivation and proposal development.
• Support annual fund activities, track and report prospect interactions, and coordinate events with relevant program directors.
• Facilitate regular gift reports and analyses related to fundraising and maintain a repository of proposals to advance campaign priorities.
• Ensure appropriate stewardship activities on behalf of program directors and manage volunteer committees, including Presidents’ Advisory Councils.
• Draft strategic plans, briefings, and high-level correspondence; review and track stewardship.
• Handle meeting and travel arrangements, proposal pipeline maintenance, event support, and technical & logistical support for Directors.
• Perform most information technology tasks and functions supporting the Directors.

Education and Experience

Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience. At least two (2) years of experience in fundraising, administrative support, nonprofits, sales, customer service, volunteer management, or marketing.

Job Competencies

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, interpersonal, project, and time‑management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft and Google platforms, including Calendar, email, Docs, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Zoom, Teams, or WebEx.
• Ability to analyze data, research, problem‑solve, and coordinate projects.
• Capacity to manage multiple tasks, priorities, and deadlines in a fast‑paced, multi‑faceted environment.
• Willingness to support a diverse and inclusive campus community.
• High motivation, pro‑activity, independence, and analytical thinking.
• Discretion and confidentiality, with a customer‑focused orientation.
• Effective teamwork and collaboration with internal and external constituents.
• Computer proficiency and information‑management skills.
• Availability for occasional night and weekend work.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of the BSR Advance CRM or similar system.
• Experience using AI‑powered tools to support proposal writing, build presentations, and administrative workflows.
• Exposure to data analytics, reporting tools, dashboards, and PowerPoint presentation design.

Background Check

All offers are contingent on a successful criminal background check and education verification as required by Brown.

EEO Statement

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.