Executive Director, Prospect Management and Development Research and Analysis

Special Instructions to Applicants: 

Rice University has retained Lindauer, an executive search firm, to assist in this search. Consideration of candidates will continue until the position is filled. Candidates should submit, in confidence, a resume and cover letter. Communications, nominations, applications, and inquiries concerning this search should be directed to Raegan Harvey, Senior Consultant, rharvey@lindauerglobal.com and Alex Barber, Senior Consultant, abarber@linduerglobal.com.

About Rice:

Boasting a 300-acre tree-lined campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is ranked among the nation’s top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio, and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lectures series, courses and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities.

Rice is also a wonderful place to work. Rice faculty, staff and students share values that are essential to our success as a healthy community. Those values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape Rice’s culture. They come through in the way we treat each other and the welcome we extend to our visitors. These values can be recalled simply by our name — RICE — Responsibility, Integrity, Community and Excellence.

Position Summary:

The Executive Director, Prospect Management and Development Research and Analysis provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the prospect research, prospect management, and analytics supporting all fundraising and organizational advancement at Rice University. This role oversees the identification, research, and evaluation of potential donors, ensuring alignment with the institution’s philanthropic objectives and campaign priorities. As a senior collaborator with development teams, the Executive Director proactively drives innovation in building and managing a robust pipeline of major and principal gift prospects essential for the upcoming campaign’s success. In addition, this position champions the adoption and integration of advanced technologies that streamline processes, enhance data-informed decision-making, and directly support the mission and strategic goals of the Development and Alumni Relations division (DAR). This role has a direct impact on the organization’s ability to raise major and principal gifts, drive successful fundraising campaigns, and foster long-term donor engagement through data-driven strategy, relationship management, and leadership in prospect research.

The ideal candidate is a highly collaborative leader and strategic thinker with a demonstrated track record and the proven ability to create and implement a successful and effective large-scale program.

Workplace Requirements:

This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change. 

*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s Degree, with a major in Business Administration, Data Analytics, Philanthropy, Nonprofit Management, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in prospect development, advancement, research, data analytics, or a related field, with progressive leadership responsibilities
  • In lieu of the education/experience requirement, additional related education and/or experience, above and beyond what is required, may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis

Skills:

• Leadership and strategic management skills
• Demonstrated expertise in managing and motivating teams in a complex or matrixed environment
• Advanced strategic analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Ability to synthesize complex data and recommend action
• High level of data fluency
• Ability to understand both the theoretical and the practical aspects of analyzing, interpreting, and presenting data 
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills
• Ability to manage a large number of project activities simultaneously
• Strong ability to show good judgment and diplomacy
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to meet expected deadlines and schedules
• Mastery and curiosity around research resource materials and prospect management theory and methodologies consistent with APRA’s Advanced Body of K