Gift Planning Officer/ Sr. Gift Planning Officer

About the Job At the University of Minnesota, we don't just study the future, we build it. As a member of the professional Gift Planning team, this position conducts solo and joint contacts to counsel prospects on charitable gift planning, designing blended gift strategies that align donor joy with University needs. This role is a production powerhouse, specializing in cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors to increase the quantity and size of estate, life‑income, and other planned gifts. Operating with a purpose‑driven mindset, you will help donors find joy by connecting their passion with possibility. Success in this role requires being innovative in navigating complex gift tax laws and collaborative with unit‑based development officers to maximize institutional impact. Location and Work Environment Location: McNamara Alumni Center, 200 Oak Street SE, Minneapolis, MN Work Environment: Hybrid; 2-3 days in office per week Travel This position involves some travel for strategic donor visits and professional development training. Reporting Structure This position reports to the Director, Gift Planning. Primary Responsibilities Planned and Major Gift Cultivation and Solicitation (Production & Purpose) (45%) Build and maintain relationships with a portfolio of assigned donors and prospects, ensuring timely steps are taken toward solicitation. File timely electronic contact reports and participate in team "Innovation" sessions for prospecting analysis and strategy. Unit Partnerships and Educational Expertise (Collaboration & Innovation) (25%) Provide gift planning expertise to Foundation staff and collegiate development officers, serving as a nimble resource for complex gift vehicles. Collaborate with colleagues to develop and present effective gift planning educational programs enterprise wide. Maintain proficiency in charitable gift law and PG Calc software to provide rapid, accurate gift illustrations for prospects. Marketing and Prospecting (Innovation) (15%) Partner with communications and prospect development teams to provide input for marketing materials and identify key market segments. Prepare and deliver presentations to alumni, staff, and faculty on estate and gift planning topics. Stewardship and DE&I Initiatives (Purpose) (15%) Initiate and monitor stewardship for assigned portfolios and discovery pools to ensure donors see the impact of their legacy. Participate in Heritage Society event planning and execution to honor those who build our future. Demonstrate a 100% commitment to valuing diversity by developing anti‑racist practices and creating a culture of belonging where all talent meets the world's greatest needs. Qualifications Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree. For Gift Planning Officer: Minimum four years' experience in gift planning, estate planning, trust management, or fundraising. For Sr. Gift Planning Officer: Minimum six years' experience in gift planning or a closely related field with a strong emphasis on planned giving activities. Ability to work effectively in a complex, Collaboration‑first environment across the enterprise. Demonstrated communication skills including writing, research, and presentation. Preferred Qualifications: Juris Doctorate (JD) or other advanced degree. For Sr. Gift Planning Officer: Minimum ten years' experience in gift planning or a closely related field with a strong emphasis on planned giving activities. Leadership experience in professional or volunteer settings, specifically within higher education fundraising. Intermediate proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Familiarity with the University of Minnesota and its alumni community. Pay and Benefits Pay Range: Gift Planning Officer: $90,000-105,000. Sr. Gift Planning Officer: $115,000-130,000. Depending on education/qualifications/experience. Time Appointment Category: 100% Appointment Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts University HSA contributions Disability and employer‑paid life insurance Employee wellbeing program Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity Financial counseling services Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area Diversity The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of Minnesota