Gift Planning Officer

Gift Planning Officer

Penn State is currently seeking a talented and high-performing gift planning professional in the role of Gift Planning Officer. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR), you can play an integral role in Penn State's future and contribute to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country.

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Gift Planning and with significant experience in gift planning and fundraising principles, this Gift Planning Officer will:

• Support, partner, and educate fundraising colleagues by providing technical expertise, gift planning options, proposal language, and participating in prospect meetings as appropriate;
• Articulate Penn State's needs, ambitions, and values through excellent informal and formal communications;
• Manage a portfolio of planned giving prospects, working with senior university leadership to secure philanthropic support;
• Travel extensively throughout the country to pursue these strategies and build enduring relationships;
• Assist with strategy in areas including prospect capacity, review of assets, formulation of gift plans and proposals, providing gift planning illustrations;
• Maintain and enhance stewardship for gift planning donors and promote the Atherton Society and its events as recognition for these donors.

The successful candidate will have:

• A track record of success in securing planned gifts and meeting fundraising goals;
• Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills, with a particular sensitivity to sophisticated, high-net worth audiences;
• The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues;
• Subject matter expertise in the planned giving field, with strong understanding and/or training in tax law and estate management practices;
• Impeccable writing, presentation skills, and ability to utilize various technologies;
• A passion for higher education and an understanding of complex institutions;
• A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team;
• A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored.

DDAR is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

If filled as Gift Planning Specialist - Senior Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree, 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None.

If filled as Gift Planning Specialist - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree, 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None.

Penn State's Division of Development and Alumni Relations

If you believe in the power of higher education—and philanthropy—to shape the public good, you'll excel right here in Penn State's Division of Development and Alumni Relations. Our organization includes more than 500 professionals engaging a community of more than 800,000 alumni who believe in the power of giving back. Across our interdisciplinary teams of fundraisers, alumni relations professionals, communicators, event planners, financial experts, and more, there is a place for you to make a difference in the lives of students and faculty while taking your own career to new heights. Learn more about us at raise.psu.edu and explore the success of our most recent campaign at greaterpennstate.psu.edu.

Building a Career and a Life at Penn State

Across all campuses and an online World Campus, our 80,000+ students and 20,000+ faculty and staff know the real measure of success goes beyond the classroom—it's the positive impact made on communities across the globe. Penn State consistently ranks among the top academic and research universities in the world: psu.edu/this-is-penn-state/facts-and-rankings.

This position is based at the University Park campus, located in State College, Pennsylvania. State College is ranked among the lowest-stress and safest small cities in the country, with excellent public schools, beautiful parks and other natural assets, and a broad range of cultural and athletic events and venues: statecollegepa.us and statecollege.com.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $81,312.00 - $154,452.00. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact View phone number on click.appcast.io.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.