Philanthropy Research Analyst (Year-Round)

The Philanthropy Research Analyst supports Interlochen’s fundraising efforts by identifying and evaluating prospective donors and providing research that informs philanthropic strategy. Working closely with the Philanthropy Research Manager and broader Advancement team, this role gathers and analyzes information to help prioritize fundraising opportunities and strengthen donor engagement. This position plays an important role in advancing Interlochen’s philanthropic goals by delivering timely insights and data that guide outreach, relationship development, and long-term fundraising strategies. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical ability, excellent attention to detail, and a genuine interest in supporting Interlochen’s mission through thoughtful, strategic prospect research.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Prioritize and respond promptly to assigned projects and research requests from the Philanthropy Department, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of information.


• Prepare prospective donor briefs in Interlochen's format compiled from internal and external sources in a timely manner.


• Conduct research to identify and evaluate prospects with alignment to organizational goals and initiatives.


• Effectively learn and utilize research resources, including public and subscription-based services such as LexisNexis, WealthEngine, AlmaConnect, and iWave/Kindsight, to inform internal stakeholders through products such as reports and meeting briefs.


• Compile research reports on event attendees.


• Develop and maintain proficiency in Salesforce to use and create reports, dashboards, and campaigns. Update Salesforce records with relevant information as needed, obtained through both internal and external sources.


• Regularly review gifts to identify donors appropriate for the major gift pipeline and inform major gift officers when relevant.


• Work collaboratively with the major gifts team to initiate and assist with activities and tasks required to develop and implement donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.


• Projects may include the creation of family trees, vetting of external donor lists and tracking email alerts.


• Foster and maintain productive relationships with programs and colleagues within the Philanthropy department and across the Interlochen campus.


• Perform other duties as assigned.

Keyword: Philanthropy Research Analyst (Year-Round)
Required Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree required.


• Minimum of 1-3 years of professional experience required.


• Experience in prospect research, fundraising, development, or a related field preferred.


• Ability to gather, analyze, and synthesize data from various sources to support philanthropic initiatives.


• Knowledge of Salesforce preferred. Experience with CRMs and Google Workspace preferred.


• Familiarity with AI and how it can be applied to prospect research work.


• Strong writing and interpersonal skills required for effectively communicating research findings.


• Ability to collaborate with stakeholders across various departments and levels of the organization to ensure alignment and effective communication of research outcomes.


• Capable of thriving in a dynamic team setting, primarily working independently and ensuring autonomy in managing tasks and responsibilities, while also contributing effectively toward collective goals.


• Ability to handle sensitive information with utmost discretion and ensure strict adherence to confidentiality protocols and standards


• Highly organized and detail-oriented with a curiosity to proactively seek out relevant information that advances research efforts.


• Comfortable working in a fast-paced office environment, with the drive to meet deadlines and the adaptability to adjust to changing deadlines.


• Demonstrate respect for cultural, ethnic, spiritual, and linguistic diversity and values including differences in personal goals, lifestyle choices, and varying family backgrounds and histories.

Application Materials Required:

• Resume


• Cover Letter

From: Interlochen Center for the Arts