Prospect Researcher

The Prospect Researcher plays a key role in supporting high-value fundraising efforts by identifying, analysing, and prioritising potential donors, trusts, and foundations aligned with the Charity’s mission. Through in-depth research and insight generation, the post holder will build a strong, actionable pipeline of prospects, enabling personalised engagement strategies for the Philanthropy Team. Working collaboratively across the Engagement Team, the Prospect Researcher will provide intelligence that shapes cultivation plans, provides insights that supports strategic conversations at events, monitors giving trends, and ensures all prospect activity is data-informed, ethical, and compliant. This role is vital to driving sustainable income growth and deepening the Charity’s reach within the philanthropic community.

Prospect Identification and Research 

• Conduct thorough research to identify and profile potential high-value donors, trusts, and foundations aligned with the charity’s mission and appeal goals.
• Use a range of tools, databases, and resources to gather information on prospects, including their giving capacity, interests, and philanthropic history.
• Prioritise prospects based on their potential value, affinity, and likelihood to engage with the charity.

Intelligence Gathering and Analysis

• Analyse research findings to produce detailed and actionable prospect profiles for use by the Philanthropy Team.
• Provide insights into donor motivations and interests to support personalised cultivation strategies.
• Monitor trends in philanthropy and the wider funding landscape to identify emerging opportunities.

Pipeline Management 

• Support the development and maintenance of a robust prospect pipeline, ensuring it aligns with the income targets and timelines of the capital appeal and core funding opportunities.
• Work closely with the rest of the Relationship Engagement Team to prioritise prospects and support with research required for cultivation activities.
• Track and update prospect records in the charity’s CRM system, Microsoft Dynamics, to ensure accuracy and accessibility.

Ethical Research and Compliance 

• Ensure all research is conducted ethically, legally, and in line with data protection regulations and best practices.
• Maintain confidentiality and sensitivity when handling donor and prospect information.

Collaboration and Reporting

• Collaborate with fundraising colleagues to share insights and ensure a coordinated approach to donor cultivation.
• Prepare regular reports on research activities, prospect pipeline status, and key insights to support strategic decision-making.
• Support the Relationship Engagement Team with ad hoc research needs, such as preparation for donor meetings or events.

Knowledge and Expereince 

• Proven experience in prospect research, fundraising, or a related field, preferably in the charity sector.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesise large amounts of information into clear and actionable insights.
• Proficiency in using research tools, databases, and online resources to identify and evaluate prospects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Familiarity with the fundraising process, particularly high-value donor and trust fundraising.
• Experience using CRM systems to manage prospect data and track progress.
• Knowledge of the charity sector and the principles of ethical fundraising.