Gift Planning Advisor Development Officer II

Working/Functional Title

Gift Planning Advisor

Position Summary

The Office of Gift Planning in the Individual Giving unit at MSU is seeking a seasoned independent-working motivated individual to assist in organization and implementation of comprehensive planned giving cultivation solicitation and stewardship responsibilities - focusing in the Midwest part of the United States with primary focus on Chicago Minneapolis and the state of Ohio in concert with college directors of development and central development fund raising staff/management. Preferred candidates will reside within commutable distance to the East Lansing area and work primarily on-campus however strong candidates living near major metros within the region and will work remotely may be considered.

As a Regional Gift Planning Advisor the successful candidate will research selected individuals to develop strategy for and cultivate potential planned and major gift addition the Regional Gift Planning Advisor will possess and enhance a comprehensive knowledge of gift planning strategies and vehicles along with an understanding of tax and trust laws applicable to the basic estate planning fundamentals including estate and gift tax income tax transfer of property trusts and wills and privately held assets.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising -

Possess with a drive to continually enhance a comprehensive knowledge of gift planning strategies and vehicles along with an understanding of tax and trust laws applicable to the basic estate planning fundamentals including estate and gift tax income tax transfer of property trusts and wills and privately held assets.

Provide counsel to donors their advisors and advancement colleagues regarding tax laws policies and procedures and resolving problems to maintain a positive image of the University.

Initiate and/or participate in identification cultivation and solicitation activities with the universitys major gifts officers and college/unit development colleagues.

Develop and maintain consistent professional relationships with college/unit development officers central fundraising colleagues university administration and faculty.

Timely response to requests from donors and potential donors; follow up and cultivation solicitation and stewardship activities as appropriate.

Prepare individual and regional operating plans in collaboration with college/unit colleagues regional major gift officers and the Office of Gift Planning.

Participate and assist in planning for alumni and donor events in the appropriate region.

Regular travel within the region and occasional travel to Michigan State University for remote employees living in the region.

Occasional after hours and weekend special events.

Communications Research and Stewardship -

As assigned assist in developing proposals review marketing materials strategies and technology in support of Office of Gift Planning programs and initiatives.

Indirectly consult with the Office of Gift Planning leadership on tasks and projects as assigned.

Research selected individuals to identify develop strategy for and cultivate potential planned and major gift donors.

Maintain donor/prospect records to ensure proper gift accounting receipting and accurate historical information regarding gifts conversations and documentation.

Exhibit excellent interpersonal communication skills expressed in the form of letters business correspondence/emails and personal conversations.

Assist in the planning and implementation of gift planning training and seminars.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Supervision is received from the Director of Gift Planning.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Communications Public Relations Marketing and/or Business; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in public relations volunteer administration professional and higher education fund raising marketing or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Travel involving automobile airlines and rail; must possess and maintain a valid drivers license.

Desired Qualifications

• Five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive experience in professional fundraising trust administration wealth management marketing or related field.
• Possess a working knowledge of tax laws governing charitable giving and charitable estate planning including bequests split income gifts current giving charitable and general estate planning.
• Fundraising experience at an institution of higher education.
• Demonstrated excellent writing and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to speak in public and in small group environments.
• Collaborative and team-oriented work style.
• Strong work ethic.
• Experience with Moves Management or related strategic relationship development techniques and practices.
• Ability to close current and future gifts and/or business deals.
• Demonstrated knowledge of or ability to quickly learn Michigan State Universitys mission culture and values with an appreciation for its land-grant heritage and alumni community.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin citizenship age disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Resume and cover letter

Special Instructions

Interested in joining the team at Michigan State University For questions contact Patricia Karam Director of Talent Acquisition at .

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Work Hours

8 am - 5 pm with possible evenings and weekends

Website

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Bidding eligibility ends May 12 2026 at 11:55 PM