Prospect Research & Analytics Lead

Colby College; Benton (ME); On-site; USD 100,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Colby College is seeking a Director of Advancement Research to convert research into fundraising opportunities and donor identification. This data-driven leader will guide the PRA team and collaborate across the Advancement Division to optimize strategy and outcomes.

The role emphasizes data analysis, strategic thinking, and the ability to translate insights into actionable plans for major gifts and campaign priorities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in education and experience; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum five years in an advancement or development office, preferably in higher education.
• Proficient with database applications including Raiser’s Edge NXT; strong analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Prospect Research and Analysis (PRA) team operations.
• Generate and analyze large datasets; draw actionable conclusions.
• Manage research processes from planning to dissemination and evaluation.
• Lead deep-dive studies to identify patterns in donor groups and priorities.
• Expand the pool of targeted donor prospects with robust methods.
• Identify fundraising opportunities via industry trends and internal collaboration.
• Prepare briefing materials for senior staff and governance meetings.
• Partner with leadership to review calendars and briefing materials.
• Improve PRA techniques for prospect identification, tracking, and documentation.
• Lead data collection/visualization for cross-functional initiatives; long-term research projects.
• Track reports with data visualization to boost pipeline development.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Leadership

Collaboration

Time management

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Raiser’s Edge NXT

Power BI

Tableau

Spotfire

Job description

Colby College is seeking a Director of Advancement Research to convert research into fundraising opportunities and donor identification. This data-driven leader will guide the PRA team and collaborate across the Advancement Division to optimize strategy and outcomes.

The role emphasizes data analysis, strategic thinking, and the ability to translate insights into actionable plans for major gifts and campaign priorities.