The University of Manitoba is a driving force of innovation, discovery and advancement. Our momentum is propelled by our campus community – UM faculty, staff and students whose determination and curiosity shape our world for the better. Our teaching, learning and work environment is uniquely strengthened and enriched by Indigenous perspectives. With two main campuses in Winnipeg, satellite campuses throughout Manitoba, and world-wide research, UM’s impact is global.
Discover outstanding employee benefits, experience world-class facilities and join a dynamic community that values reconciliation, sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. We are one of Manitoba’s Top Employers and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers. At the University of Manitoba, what inspires you can change everything.
The opportunity:
The University of Manitoba is seeking a Manager, Advancement Research and Prospect Management (RPM) to lead the strategy and execution of prospect research and portfolio management in support of major and principal gift fundraising. This role is central to building a strong donor pipeline by integrating data analysis, donor intelligence, and moves management into a coordinated system that drives fundraising performance and campaign success.
Reporting to the Executive Director of Advancement Services, the Manager provides strategic insight and counsel to senior fundraising and academic leaders, ensuring alignment between donor opportunities and institutional priorities. The successful candidate will bring experience across the fundraising lifecycle, a strong understanding of how research fuels engagement, and the ability to bridge data-driven analysis with frontline strategy. With a forward-looking approach – including the use of AI for prospect modeling and fundraising innovation – the Manager will play a pivotal role in advancing the university’s most ambitious fundraising campaign to date.
The qualifications and experience we’re looking for:
- A university degree in a relevant field (e.g., business, information systems, communications, or related discipline) is required.
- A CFRE designation is considered an asset but not required.
- An equivalent combination of education and directly related experience in prospect research, prospect management, or major/principal gift fundraising will be considered.
- Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in advancement is required, preferably within a post-secondary or complex institutional setting.
- Demonstrated success in major or principal gift fundraising, prospect research, or prospect management-with experience across the full donor lifecycle required.
- Proven leadership experience, including supervision, team development, and cross-functional collaboration is required.
- Experience with research methodologies, data analysis, donor intelligence, and use of fundraising CRM systems required (e.g., Raiser's Edge NXT).
- Experience working in an environment with evolving systems, AI tools, and analytics-driven decision-making is preferred.
- Strong strategic thinking skills, with the ability to translate complex information into actionable fundraising insights required.
- High proficiency in CRM systems, reporting tools, and Microsoft Office required; experience with AI applications in research and prospect management is a strong asset.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across technical and non-technical teams required.
- Strong analytical, judgment, and decision-making skills, particularly in handling confidential and sensitive donor information required.
- Demonstrated ability to align systems, data, and workflows to support fundraising strategy and operational needs required.
- Ability to mentor and lead high-performing teams and foster a collaborative, innovation-focused culture required.
- Satisfactory work record, including satisfactory attendance and punctuality, is required.
- A deep understanding of the role of philanthropy in higher education and the motivations behind charitable giving.
- A positive, team-oriented mindset with the ability to adapt in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
- Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in donor engagement and team leadership.
Why the University of Manitoba?
Along with being one of Manitoba’s top employers, we are proud to provide a collaborative and enriching work environment. In addition to a strong compensation package with a competitive salary, the University provides an exceptional workplace that includes:
- Comprehensive group benefits and pension plan.
- Competitive vacation time.
- Employee and Family Assistance Program.
- A full spectrum of professional development opportunities.
Closing Date: August 31, 2025
Applications will only be accepted if you apply on UM Careers.
The University of Manitoba is committed to the principles of equity, diversity & inclusion and to promoting opportunities in hiring, promotion and tenure (where applicable) for systemically marginalized groups who have been excluded from full participation at the University and the larger community including Indigenous Peoples, women, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, questioning, intersex, asexual and other diverse sexual identities).
If you require accommodation supports during the recruitment process, please contact 204-474-7195. Please note this contact information is for accommodation reasons only.
Application materials, including letters of reference, will be handled in accordance with the protection of privacy provisions of The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Manitoba). Please note that curriculum vitae will be provided to participating members of the search process.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $75,759.27-$121,214.83 per year
Work Location: In person
