Development Program Specialist

Brown University; Rhode Island; Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University in Providence, RI seeks a Development Program Specialist to lead regional fundraising activities for major donors, coordinating engagement plans, proposals, and events to support the NY and Eastern Seaboard programs.

Requires a bachelor’s degree and 4+ years in fundraising or related fields; strong analytics, organizational and writing skills; proficiency with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and CRM systems; occasional evenings and weekends are expected with a hybrid work

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• 4+ years in fundraising, development, or related field.
• Strong analytical, planning, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead regional fundraising activities for major donors.
• Coordinate engagement plans, proposals, and events.
• Provide onboarding and guidance to staff to ensure process consistency.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Project management

Excellent communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

CRM systems

Microsoft 365

Google Workspace

Job description

Job Description:The Development Program Specialist (DPS) serves as the operational lead for the Director, Regional Development (NY) in cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship goals for major and principal-level families; the comprehensive design, development, planning, management, and execution of principal, major, and leadership giving engagement activities that support the fundraising goals of the NY and Eastern Seaboard regional programs (areas assigned by management as determined) within the Division of Advancement; training, onboarding, and guidance to Development Associates and Development Coordinators to support regional engagement and prospect work and ensure consistency in adhering to processes.This position requires in-depth knowledge of the University, its initiatives, and its internal and external constituents to strategically advance high-impact development activities promoting University priorities in alignment with prospect interests and to ensure the University leadership is effectively and efficiently engaged with top prospects based on continually evolving variables, including timing, readiness, relative prioritization across multiple portfolios, and awareness of other evolving philanthropic discussions. The incumbent needs to be well-informed about numerous key donor relationships to adjust to shifting priorities and exercise judgment in prioritizing activities that directly impact University leadership and top prospects. The DPS routinely interacts with a variety of University colleagues, including Advancement leadership, Alumni Relations, Development, various academic departments, and faculty members.This position is located in Providence, RI.Education and ExperienceBachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.Minimum of 4 years of experience in a related field, such as fundraising, development, customer relations, nonprofits, higher education, and/or high-level administrative support.Job CompetenciesExcellent analytical, data management, and problem-solving skills.Strong organizational and planning skills with the ability to initiate, collaborate, implement, monitor, evaluate, and advance funding proposals that support program activities and contribute to Advancement’s overall goals and objectives and the University’s fundraising enterprise.Superior interpersonal skills with proven ability to effectively interact and collaborate with varied constituencies in a professional manner, exhibiting excellent written and oral communication skills, team-building skills, and demonstrating tact, poise, and diplomacy while working with a wide variety of personalities.Ability to apply sound judgment and proven responsible decision-making skills; tact and discretion are required to handle highly confidential information from alumni, parents, students, families, donors, and prospects.Experienced and comfortable with both Windows applications, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, as well as Google, including Calendar, Drive, Docs, and Slides. Proficient with audio/visual and presentation platforms (Zoom, Microsoft Teams or WebEx, PowerPoint, etc.)Experience using a customer relationship management (CRM) system is preferred.Experience with database systems as well as writing/editing/proofreading skills.Must be able and willing to work occasional evenings and weekends.Preferred QualificationsKnowledge of BSR Advance, or a similar CRM.Experience using AI-powered tools to support proposal writing, build presentations, and administrative workflows.Some exposure to data analytics and reporting tools to help interpret trends, track engagement, and support strategic decision-making.Some experience in synthesizing and presenting data clearly through reports, dashboards, spreadsheets, and PowerPoint presentations.Background Check: All offers of employment are contingent upon a successful criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown.Additional Information: Please submit a resume and cover letter when applying for this position.Read more about the benefits of working at Brown here.Benefits of Working at Brown:Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.Recruiting Start Date:2026-09-17Job Posting Title:Development Program SpecialistDepartment:AdvancementGrade:Grade 10Worker Type:EmployeeWorker Sub-Type:RegularTime Type:Full timeScheduled Weekly Hours:37.5Position Work Location:HybridSubmission Guidelines:The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote.Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings.This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.Still Have Questions?If you have any questions you may contact [e-mail] is an E-Verify Employer.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.