Development Officer

About Bethel University Bethel University is a leader in Christ-centered higher education with approximately 4,700 students from 50 states and 32 countries enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, seminary, and adult education programs. Based in St. Paul, Minnesota, Bethel offers bachelor's and advanced degrees in nearly 100 fields. Educationally excellent classroom-based and online programs equip graduates to make exceptional contributions in life‑long service to God and the world. Bethel University’s Christ-centered mission includes a commitment to equal educational opportunity and equal employment opportunity. Bethel does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, status with regard to public assistance, familial status, or age in its admissions, educational programs, or employment practices. Position Overview Reporting to the AVP for Philanthropy and Engagement, the Development Officer will focus on establishing and expanding external relationships through face‑to‑face interactions, email outreach, and regional travel. The Development Officer will be instrumental in advancing Bethel’s mission by managing a portfolio of leadership‑level prospects with a focus on discovery, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of prospects and donors in support of Bethel’s annual goals. This role is critical to Bethel’s ongoing success and execution of its mission by building lasting philanthropic relationships with Alumni, Parents, and Friends. Using a suite of tools, this role will deepen their connection to the University and increase their financial support across the strategic plan. Primary Responsibilities Fundraising – 80% Manage a pool of 150‑170 potential leadership gift prospects and work to identify and qualify new prospects. Establish and achieve individual fundraising and engagement targets in support of Bethel’s fundraising goals. Track performance metrics on an individual and team basis. Manage past donors and potential donors with the capacity to give between $2,500 and $25,000 yearly. Qualify and Engage Bethel Alumni and Friends through increased partnership from personal and virtual meetings, with the expectation of regional travel. Be an active and collaborative member of the Advancement Team focused on optimizing the giving potential of all prospective donors. Conduct a minimum of 15‑20 visits a month (either virtual or in‑person) to steward, engage, or solicit donors. Initiate opportunities for members of the Bethel community to interact with prospects/donors and how philanthropy can fit within its strategic plan at all levels. Embrace all of the Bethel University community engaging with and participating in campus activities and opportunities. Program Management – 10% In collaboration with Alumni/Parent Relations, help develop and execute a comprehensive annual giving program for athletics, including Homecoming, Giving Day, Parent Support, and former athletes (alumni). In coordination with Advancement Operations, utilize technology to find creative ways to connect, inspire, and motivate donors while promoting a level of understanding about the impact each gift has on the mission of Bethel Athletics. Help educate supporters and partners internally and externally about the needs of Bethel and how every donor will impact the student experience. Together with colleagues, develop messaging and material that clearly outlines this need and who we are called to be at Bethel. Collaboration with University Development Staff – 10% Work closely and collaborate with Advancement Operations, Alumni & Parents, other Senior Directors of Development, and Advancement Leadership on individual prospects, events, and development of the overall strategic fundraising plan for the department. Collaborate with all fundraising (Principal, Leadership, Major Gifts, Planned Giving, and Annual Fund). Conduct cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship visits at the request of the VP/AVP for Philanthropy. Qualifications Education: Bachelor's Degree Experience: Two years of prior experience in Annual Giving, Sales, or transferable experience. Benefits Bethel is committed to offering meaningful benefits to our employees including health insurance, retirement plans, and a generous time‑off package. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time. #J-18808-Ljbffr