Advancement Communications and Donor Engagement Manager

Mission

At EPFL, philanthropy plays a pivotal role in advancing world-class research, education, and innovation. As we grow our development team, we are seeking a seasoned Team Lead Senior Fundraiser for new business development and donor outreach who will play a central role in expanding our network of philanthropic partners and driving transformational philanthropy at EPFL.

This role will lead pipeline growth, cultivate philanthropic relationships, and guide a high-performing team, while also serving as a key partner to EPFL's senior leadership in major gift outreach and solicitation. Supported by colleagues in prospect research, stewardship, communications, and by strategic insights from internal stakeholders engaged in donor outreach efforts, you will focus on building new philanthropic partnerships, renewing existing major gifts, helping to secure further support, and shaping the future of philanthropy at EPFL.

• Manage and mentor a small team and focus on developing their skills while fostering collaboration.
• Represent the philanthropy team when required.
• Co-develop and execute fundraising strategies in collaboration with key internal stakeholders to design fundraising strategies and lead in their execution.
• Drive and support new philanthropic partnerships, accompany Philanthropy Managers in the expansion of their portfolio.
• Cultivate, renew, and solicit Major Gifts in collaboration with senior leadership and team.
• Contribute to compelling proposals development and presentations material.
• Oversee the negotiation and support the contractual process to ensure documentation and institutional compliance.
• In collaboration with team, actively participates in stewardship efforts. Contribute to consistent delivery of stewardship activities.
• Ensure donors and prospects information is accurately entered and updated in the CRM system, including contact details, meeting notes, donation history, and future actions.
• Assist in the planning and execution of high-level donor engagement events, ensuring alignment with fundraising goals and donor cultivation strategies.
• Generate regular reports on fundraising progress, donor engagement, and pipeline activity. Provide updates to leadership on key metrics, trends, and major prospect developments.
• Perform other duties as required by the Director of Philanthropy and/or senior leadership.

Profile

Education and experience:

• Master's degree (or equivalent level of expertise) in Communications, Business Administration, a STEM discipline, or a related field, combined with significant experience in philanthropy, major gifts, or institutional advancement, ideally within a complex academic or research environment.
• At least 12 years of progressively responsible experience in fundraising, with a proven track record of securing major gifts for research, scientific, or educational institutions.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience managing and developing a team of fundraisers or advancement professionals.
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building abilities, with the capacity to engage and inspire high-net-worth individuals, foundation leaders, and C-level executives.
• Demonstrated experience working within a research or higher education context is highly desirable.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines within a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Competencies:

• Bilingual French-English, other languages a plus,
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills

Skills:

• Strong leadership skills
• Strategic thinker,
• Proven ability to navigate within a multilayered, decentralized organization,
• Solid understanding of academic environment,
• Detail oriented
• Resistance to stress.

• A stimulating, dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international working environment
• An inclusive workspace and equal opportunities for all
• Excellent work conditions

Informations

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