Philanthropic Recognition Officer

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Description

Job Description

For over 160 years, the University of Washington has been a hub for learning, innovation, problem solving and community building. Supporting this legacy and important public mission—with the goal of making the UW the world’s greatest public university, as measured by positive impact—guides everything we do in University Advancement. Bringing together development; alumni and stakeholder engagement; marketing and communications; and advancement operations, we advance the UW’s impact by developing meaningful connections that foster pride, advocacy and philanthropic support. 

The mission of the Development team is to facilitate private resources to enhance and protect the University’s reputation and support equitable community building and service. This starts with creating a culture of belonging within our organization that values the diverse experiences and expertise of our team members, allowing everyone to thrive and to contribute their unique talents as we strive to achieve our shared goals.

The Philanthropic Recognition Programs team has an exciting opening for a Philanthropic Recognition Officer. This is a full-time permanent position.

The Philanthropic Recognition Programs (PRP) team partners across Advancement to foster a vibrant donor community that supports students, faculty and the broader UW mission. Our work highlights the collective impact of philanthropy and celebrates every gift and contributor across the UW. This position supports the strategy, coordination and ongoing evolution of three signature recognition programs: The President’s Circle, UW Lifetime and Husky Loyal, which honor annual leadership giving, lifetime cumulative generosity and loyal year-over-year support respectively. The Philanthropic Recognition Officer plays a crucial role in cultivating these relationships and ensuring supporters feel appreciated and connected to the University of Washington.

What You Will Do:

Recognition Program Fulfillment and Development (50%)

  • Oversee day-to-day fulfillment activities for donor recognition programs, including communications, inventory, vendor relations, gift distribution and CRM recognition coding. Act as a CRM expert and improve processes through enhanced tools, workflows and standard operating procedures.

  • Manage donor recognition inquiries, concerns, and feedback as the primary point of contact, ensuring timely and professional responses. Analyze donor responses to identify actionable insights and recommend strategy improvements.

Donor Engagement and Recognition Communications (40%)

  • Independently write and edit donor materials such as emails, website content, newsletters, ads and impact stories.

  • Support donor engagement and University fundraising goals by using data and research to guide communication plans and decisions.

  • Maintain an inventory of digital assets for recognition programs, ensuring websites and other online resources are regularly updated and aligned with current strategies.

  • Support the planning and implementation of exclusive donor recognition events in partnership with University Marketing & Communications. This includes managing invitation lists and CRM data, maintaining project documentation and workflows and occasionally leading small-scale donor engagement events involving vendors, volunteers and event logistics.

  • Provide input into the annual planning process by sharing ideas and recommendations based on audience needs, past events and program goals.

Other (10%)

  • Act as an internal ambassador for recognition programs by sharing information, fostering cross-team understanding and partnering with the Associate Director to increase program visibility

  • Participate in relevant University Advancement and UW committees, working groups, events and activities.

  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements: 

Bachelor’s degree AND a minimum of two years of experience in nonprofit donor relations, program management, customer service, communications, or a related field.

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.

What You Bring:

  • Experience in event coordination and customer-facing support, with working knowledge of CRM systems to manage relationships and drive service efficiency.

  • Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify inefficiencies and propose practical process improvements.

  • Demonstrated strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint for correspondence, special reports, spreadsheets, databases and forms.

  • Ability to make decisions in ambiguous situations and exercise good judgment based on available information in a fast-paced environment.

  • Ability to work independently, problem solve, take initiative, set priorities and handle multiple projects efficiently and effectively.

  • During Events (from setup to tear down) or on Event days:

    • Ability to lift/move 20 pounds regularly and up to 40 pounds occasionally for event setup and tear down.

    • Ability to stand 4 or more hours continuously.

    • Ability to walk 4 or more hours continuously.

    • Ability to work greater than a 10-hour day.

What You Can Expect:

  • Hybrid work schedule with at least two days in the Seattle office per week.

  • Cubicle/Open workspace environment which may result in additional or higher levels of noise and visual distractions.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$71,004.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$78,468.00 annual

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

Not Applicable

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law. 

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