Gift Planning Officer

Kansas State University Foundation; Manhattan (KS); On-site; USD 86,000 - 94,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive health, dental, life insurance

403(b) retirement plan with 10% company contribution

Paid leave for holidays, vacation, and more

Tuition and certification assistance

$300 annual wellness program reimbursement

Job summary

Kansas State University Foundation is seeking a Gift Planning Officer in Manhattan, KS. This role involves managing donor relationships, guiding impactful giving strategies, and cultivating high-level gifts of $50,000 and above.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years in financial planning or estate management. The position offers a competitive salary and a full-time schedule with a focus on mission-driven work.

Benefits include health insurance, a retirement plan, and tuition assistance.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of full-time experience in trusts and estate law, financial planning, or trust/wealth management.
• Experience in managing relationships and presenting proposals.
• Strong interpersonal skills and persuasive communication.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio and cultivate gifts of $50,000+.
• Develop tailored strategies for each donor.
• Collaborate with stakeholders on donor strategies.

Skills

Client relationship management

Effective communication

Financial planning

Active listening

Education

Bachelor's degree or relevant certifications (CPA, CFP, CFRE)

Job description

Compensation: $86,000-$94,000 annually

Regular, Full-Time, Exempt

Location: Manhattan, KS (onsite only)

Our Promise to You

• Competitive health, dental, life insurance, plus voluntary benefits including company paid HSA contributions
• 403(b) retirement plan with 10% company contribution
• Paid leave for holidays, vacation, wellness, personal, parental, and volunteer
• Tuition and certification assistance and a $300 annual reimbursement wellness program
• A work environment that embraces flexibility inside of a framework
• Mission-driven work that changes the lives of people around the world
• View more benefits on our website.

Turn Financial Expertise into Lasting Impact as a Gift Planning Officer

Step into a role where your expertise meets purpose. As a Gift Planning Officer, you will build meaningful relationships, guide impactful giving strategies, and help donors leave a lasting legacy. This is an opportunity for a driven, relationship‑focused professional to translate financial insight into transformational philanthropic support.

As a Gift Planning Officer, you will identify, cultivate, and steward donors while growing a strategic portfolio aligned to ambitious goals. You’ll collaborate across teams and confidently present complex gift opportunities in a compelling way. This position is ideal for someone with a background in financial planning, trust or wealth management, or estate‑related services who is ready to apply their skills in a mission‑driven environment.

In this highly visible role, the Gift Planning Officer will engage directly with alumni, donors, and advisors—building trust, navigating sophisticated giving conversations, and driving results through proactive outreach. A successful Gift Planning Officer brings confidence, curiosity, and a passion for connecting people to purpose.

What You’ll Do

• Manage a portfolio and qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward gifts of $50,000+
• Develop and execute tailored strategies for each prospect
• Present planned giving options aligned to donor goals and financial situations
• Collaborate with stakeholders to advance donor strategies
• Travel to meet donors and build lasting, high‑impact relationships

Requirements

• 2+ years of full‑time, transferable experience in trusts and estate law, financial planning, or trust/wealth management
• Experience calling, conducting face‑to‑face appointments, managing relationships, creating and presenting proposals, and other fundamental elements of client/donor relationship or sales‑related activities
• Proven ability to communicate effectively and persuasively with a diverse audience
• Strong interpersonal skills with an emphasis on engaged listening

Bonus Expertise That Sets You Apart

• Bachelor’s degree or relevant certifications (CPA, CFP, CFRE)
• Knowledge of real estate transactions or complex assets
• Understanding of tax implications and charitable estate planning vehicles
• Familiar with fundraising or donor engagement strategies

As a Gift Planning Officer, you will stay current on planned giving strategies—including real estate, trusts, and estate planning vehicles—allowing you to guide donors and advisors with credibility. This position is built for a go‑getter who thrives on travel, connection, and meaningful results.

If you’re ready to grow your impact and elevate your career as a Gift Planning Officer, apply today!