Prospect Research Specialist

PRIMARY DETAIL- $122,628 - $136,449 (HEW Level 8) plus 17% employer’s superannuation contribution and annual leave loading- Join a supportive and collaborative team within a flexible and adaptable working environment.- Based at Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

Macquarie University is hiring for a Prospect Development Specialist to develop, manage and source prospect opportunities to support the University’s fundraising activities. Our Philanthropy and Alumni Relations within the Office of the Vice-Chancellor is responsible for all philanthropic activity across the University and creates, develops and manages relationships with alumni, friends and donors, and other supporters who help advance the University's mission.

The Prospect Development Specialist plays a critical role in advancing Macquarie University’s philanthropic goals by identifying, researching, and prioritising high-potential donors whose values align with the University’s mission.

Key Responsibilities- Identify, build and manage an efficient research analysis and pipeline of prospective donors to support the University’s fundraising activities.- Develop and implement prospect research processes and protocols.- Develop and implement prospect screening and data mining activities to identify a prospective donor’s capacity for donation to maximise the impact of data and information for fundraising and alumni relations needs- Conduct research and analysis and develop research reports on the capacity and affinity of new prospective donors for fundraising programs- Analyse prospect information to recommend appropriate ratings and solicitation avenues for fundraising projects and collate prospect information into organised profiles- Manage the quality and integrity of prospect assignment, activity, and profile data- Ensure prospect research activity adheres to legal and regulatory requirements and ethical standards- Monitor and evaluate professional research and fundraising literature for new technologies and approaches and make recommendations to the Executive Director, Philanthropy and Alumni Relations and the Philanthropy and Alumni Relations Office on those that will increase the University’s effectiveness in fundraising- Comply with relevant EEO and WHS regulations- Perform any other duties as required and appropriate for this classification

About You- Degree and/or equivalent experience in a related discipline- Sound knowledge of higher education fundraising- Demonstrated knowledge of philanthropy and fundraising- Knowledge of and competence in word processing, spreadsheets and fundraising database software- Experience with building and managing relationships with donors and other key stakeholders- Prospect identification, diagnostic analysis and research, particularly working with a broad range of electronic resources, including web search engines and directories; and public and commercial research tools.- Experience with developing processes and protocols for obtaining and managing prospect data.- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with ability to build and maintain effective working relationships at all levels

About Us

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Celebrating its 60th year in 2024, it was established as a bold experiment in higher education and designed to break from educational traditions to work in tandem with industry. Institutionally we strive for the extraordinary by challenging convention and embracing different views. Our pioneering culture has encouraged and inspired students, staff and collaborators to break free from conventional thinking, and to actively shape the complex issues that define the future of humanity.

Why work at Macquarie

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index, having recently earned a five-star rating in the QS World Rankings with the highest rating for employability.

Our prime location, we are walking distance from Macquarie University Metro Station and Macquarie Shopping Centre. Not only are we close, take a look at our benefits on offer:
- 17% Superannuation- Subsidised onsite parking options- Flexible working options- Training and professional development- Onsite childcare facilities- Discounted health insurance (Medibank)- Onsite vacation care- Employee Assistance Program- Subsidised membership at the Sport & Aquatic Centre- Onsite GP, imaging & physio clinics
- Please note that this position will require a criminal record check. Work hours may vary from time to time to accommodate business needs._

Applications Close:
15/10/2025 11:59 PM

A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through