Senior Philanthropic Advisor

Senior Philanthropic Advisor 4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 1250 W Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53233 Full-time Marquette University 281 reviews Full-time The Senior Philanthropic Advisor secures philanthropic support for university priorities by leading highly customized identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for a focused portfolio of principal gift prospects capable of making commitments of $1 million or more. The Advisor will work collaboratively with Advancement leadership, volunteers, and university partners to align donor interests with institutional priorities. This position may be regionally based within Florida and will require regular travel back to campus in Milwaukee, WI. Duties and Responsibilities Portfolio Management Develop, manage, and advance a focused portfolio of principal gift prospects and donors, each with the capacity to contribute gifts of $1 million or more, using a strategic, relationship driven approach. Achieve annual performance expectations of securing a minimum of $5.5 million in new philanthropic commitments by managing a portfolio of up to 40 principal gift prospects, executing an annual fundraising business plan with defined goals, strategies, metrics, and timelines aligned with university priorities and campaign objectives, while ensuring deep engagement, forward movement, and ongoing pipeline development. Proactively identify, qualify, and cultivate new principal gift prospects through research, referrals, and collaboration with Advancement colleagues, volunteers, and university leadership. Conduct frequent, high quality, face to face visits with principal gift prospects and donors—targeting 15-20 meaningful contacts per month—designed to deepen engagement and move prospects toward philanthropic commitments. Meet regularly with the supervisor and collaborate closely with members of the Advancement team to develop, review, and refine individualized strategies and action plans; track and report progress toward goals for all assigned prospects. Lead and manage the principal gift solicitation process, including maintaining a comprehensive understanding of university priorities and funding needs; developing tailored solicitation strategies and materials; coordinating and leading strategy sessions; preparing detailed briefing materials; and making personal, face to face solicitations when appropriate. Maintain consistent, appropriate, and donor centered contact with prospects and donors; document all interactions and activity accurately and in a timely manner in the University Advancement prospect management system. Meeting Attendance and UA Representation Represent the university at campus, regional, and national events, including volunteer meetings and cultivation activities, which may occur during evenings and weekends. Actively participate in Advancement activities, including monthly staff meetings, prospect tracking and portfolio review meetings, committee meetings, and other related activities. Travel extensively, averaging approximately two weeks per month, as required to effectively manage a portfolio and support university objectives. Manage an annual operating budget. Staff, oversee, and supervise projects or initiatives as assigned, including cross functional efforts to support principal gift fundraising. Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Bachelor's degree from an accredited college and/or university is required. Professional experience should include at least eight years of experience in fundraising and/or outside sales, particularly in preparing and soliciting major six and seven figure gifts. A proven track record of strategic, entrepreneurial and creative fundraising success, the demonstrated ability to thrive in a culture that is results-oriented and fast paced and the ability to build strong collaborative relationships across a complex organization is needed. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to work with colleagues in a team environment is needed. The ability to travel extensively is required. Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Experience in planned giving is ideal. Department University Advancement Posting Date 05/05/2026 Closing Date Special Instructions to Applicants EOE Statement It is the policy of Marquette University to provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other applicable federal or state-protected classification. Required Documents Required Documents Resume Cover Letter/Letter of Application Optional Documents