Description

ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW 

As a center for Jewish philanthropy, the Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund (the Federation) mobilizes assets to support the most pressing issues of our time, while building and sustaining thriving Jewish communities in the Bay Area, Israel and beyond for generations to come. We inspire personal and collaborative philanthropy, and facilitate grantmaking, impact lending, and advocacy to make the world a better place.

With our work guided by Jewish values, the Federation operates as a community foundation, partnering with individuals and families to implement their charitable visions as well as to connect and strengthen the Jewish non-profit sector. In 2022, the Federation granted and loaned more than $245 million, making it the single largest funder of Jewish causes in the state of California.

The Federation is seeking a highly motivated and qualified individual with a variety of skill sets who wants to join a team working to build a new model of 21st century and next generation Federation engagement.

ROLE SUMMARY 

The Research and Prospect Associate is part of Integrated Philanthropy team that works to engage people in becoming donors with the Federation, helping them invest in keeping with their philanthropic priorities.
The Associate is responsible for identifying prospects, conducting prospect research, participating in portfolio reviews with fundraisers, and drafting, implementing, and managing policies and procedures related to prospect research as needed. The role’s responsibilities will continue to develop in line with the Federation’s growth and needs. The associate should be familiar with utilizing a wide range of research resources and demonstrate proficiency at translating data and information into written documents.

This role is a full time, hybrid position with two days in the office in San Francisco.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

• Identify, research, and analyze new prospects and current donors by reviewing and analyzing databases and numerous internal and external resources. 
• Draft, revise, and edit philanthropic research documents, including background reports, prospect briefings, and biographies.
• Ensure that briefing materials are appropriate for senior leadership and aligned with institutional strategy and key messages. 
• Assist with research needs for events. 
• Partner with fundraisers to provide analytical information to inform the development process. 
• Participate in portfolio management practice in collaboration with fundraisers. 
• Utilize and have deep understanding of the Federation’s Salesforce constituent relationship management (CRM) system. 
• Adhere to recognized fundraising and research ethics policies and standards. 

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES

• Knowledge and understanding of the fundraising cycle and where prospect research fits within that cycle.
• Commitment to embody, practice, and develop growth mindset skill sets in work and interactions. 
• Strong collaborative orientation. Ability to develop working relationships and communicate with colleagues. 
• Demonstrated strong research and analytical skills. Ability to investigate an issue, ask thoughtful questions, and recommend possible solutions. 
• Self-disciplined, action-oriented style. Ability to complete complex projects independently and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines. 
• Strong written skills (including editing and proofreading), including the ability to succinctly translate data for fundraisers, senior management, and the board of directors. 
• High level of attention to detail, particularly with names, financial data, and biographical details. 
• Sound judgment and discretion in handling and securing confidential information and adhering to professional ethics. 
• Demonstrated proficiency in the use of office software (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams) and research databases such as IWAVE for Development Professionals. Ability to learn new prospect and donor technology, including Salesforce, if not already familiar. Experience using Salesforce or other CRM software is a plus.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

A bachelor’s degree and minimum 2 years of professional experience in nonprofit (preferably donor research) or 4 years relevant experience required. 

EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES

The Federation views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a company culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible talent pool to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values. The Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund is an equal opportunity employer.