Gifts Administration Specialist – Donor Data & Pledges

University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 29,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Tuition benefits

Retirement plans

Time away from work

Wellness programs

Job summary

Gifts Management Specialist, Wharton External Affairs at the University of Pennsylvania is responsible for accurate processing of gifts and pledges, maintaining donor data in Salesforce, and supporting Major and Principal Gifts programs. The role requires strong judgment, attention to detail, and excellent service to frontline fundraisers and partners.

Located in Philadelphia, this position supports a high-dollar fundraising operation and collaborates with internal stakeholders to ensure policy

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED and 3–5 years of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to manage detailed, high-volume work with a high degree of accuracy, organization, and follow-through.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to independently research discrepancies, identify solutions, and resolve data or processing issues.
• Excellent judgment and demonstrated ability to interpret and consistently apply policies, procedures, and business rules.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a service-oriented approach to working with colleagues and internal partners.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively in a fast-paced, complex environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate and reliable data.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively and to exercise appropriate discretion when handling sensitive donor and gift information.
• Experience with Salesforce or a comparable CRM/database system preferred.

Responsibilities

• Process gifts and pledges accurately and timely in support of Wharton’s high-volume fundraising operation, ensuring compliance with University policies and procedures.
• Maintain the accuracy and integrity of gift and donor data in Salesforce, independently researching discrepancies, identifying appropriate resolutions, and proactively making necessary corrections.
• Draft and coordinate gift agreements and provide support for complex gifts, partnering with frontline fundraisers and internal stakeholders to facilitate accurate and efficient gift administration.
• Provide responsive, high-quality service and guidance to Principal Gifts, Major Gifts, and other fundraising partners regarding gift processing, documentation, and related administrative matters.
• Interpret and apply University gift administration policies and procedures, exercising sound judgment to address questions and resolve complex or non-routine issues.
• Support ongoing efforts to strengthen gift administration processes, data quality, and operational effectiveness.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job description

Gifts Management Specialist, Wharton External Affairs at the University of Pennsylvania is responsible for accurate processing of gifts and pledges, maintaining donor data in Salesforce, and supporting Major and Principal Gifts programs. The role requires strong judgment, attention to detail, and excellent service to frontline fundraisers and partners.

Located in Philadelphia, this position supports a high-dollar fundraising operation and collaborates with internal stakeholders to ensure policy