Assistant Director of Data Solutions

Job Level
Mid-level position
Job Category
Associate / Assistant Director
Sector
  • Systems / Operations
Job Status
Areas of Responsibility
  • Data / Database

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is currently looking to add an Assistant Director of Data Solutions to the Division of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement.  Reporting to the Senior Director of Data Solutions, the Assistant Director is a programmer/analyst charged with business analysis, reporting, data interfaces, data visualization, web development, system functions, and data acquisition.  The Assistant Director will be responsible for both a constantly evolving portfolio of projects with discrete objectives, assets, and timelines as well as important ongoing programmatic functions.

The Assistant Director must be proactive, energetic, tenacious and detail-oriented with the ability to work collaboratively with other members of the staff to advance the University's efforts to fund-raise and friend-raise from its constituencies. May be tasked to supervise the efforts of part-time data and gift processing staff and/or student workers assigned to such tasks.

 

Responsibilities:

Solutions Project Roles 

As assigned by the Senior Director, takes initiative to design, implement, and/or refine technical, procedural, and policy improvements that foster positive outcomes in advancement services, philanthropy, and alumni engagement. Projects may entail development of new algorithms and reports; acquiring and loading new data sources; systemic data hygiene efforts; implementing system updates; or on occasion, reducing backlogs in data or gift processing; Plans and manages organizational change, designs and implements new business processes and identifies potential resource requirements. 

 

Reporting

In consultation with the Executive Director, develops, maintains and reports detailed analytics related to constituents, donations, activity, trends and metrics as needed by management. Oversees data request procedures and manages the fulfillment of all requests for queries, exports, lists for constituent review, mailing lists and reporting.  Responsible for reviewing and ensuring the relevance, accuracy, and timeliness of data and reporting for purposes of accountability and constituents’ outcomes.  Develop and maintain queries/exports for direct appeals, email campaigns, publications, events, and ad hoc projects.

 

Technology Optimization

Uses software, such as Omatic tools or Tableau or other data visualization tools, to supplement the built-in functionality of the enterprise platform. Troubleshoot platform-related issues for users, engaging other staff as needed for resolution. Partner with colleagues in IT as necessary.

 

Qualifications

  • A Bachelor's degree and four years of advancement-related systems operation, data management, or reporting experience is required.  
  • A mastery of SQL programming language is also required. 
  • Experience in a higher education advancement environment, with Ellucian Advance and imodules; web development, including tools such as Java; data visualization including tools like Tableau; and a master’s degree are preferred.
  • Must be proficient at developing and refining systems and procedures for the smooth functioning of office operations and a growing knowledge of Advancement Services (e.g. reporting standards, use of databases and Advancement software). 
  • Must possess commitment to develop expertise in areas of the tax code related to gifts and gift acceptance and CASE standards.

KNOWLEDGE

  • SQL programming language and its use for reporting
  • Demonstrated success in enterprise level software conversion and implementation project management
  • Demonstrated experience in planning for and managing organizational change and behavior
  • Proper business correspondence
  • Proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Use of general office equipment and computer
  • Use of the internet as a productivity or research tool
  • Business and professional etiquette
  • Development and alumni relations best practices
  • Basic understanding of research

    SKILLS

    • Proficient in report writing, prospect management and gift posting
    • Excellent written and oral communication skills
    • Problem solving skills, emphasizing a solutions-oriented mentality
    • Excellent interpersonal skills
    • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
    • Strong analytical skills
    • Basic budgeting and cost-estimating
    • Customer relations skills
    • Comprehend, analyze, and synthesize prospect reports, maps, tables, graphs, and other technical information 

    ABILITIES

    • Energetic and self-motivated, well-prepared, with routinely robust follow through
    • Demonstrate strong character, emphasizing integrity, caring, and honesty, as well as loyalty to the institution
    • Develop proficiency with University’s fundraising database/software
    • Maintain positive and respectful engagement with colleagues and clients
    • Effectively prioritize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
    • Adaptable and resilient when confronted with challenges and changing priorities
    • Manage and meet deadlines
    • Adhere to divisional and university policies and procedures
    • Compile expense reports
    • Plan and appropriately execute social engagement activities
    • Read and generate prospect reports, maps, and other technical information associated with giving and engagement
    • Work effectively in a multi-faceted organization and develop cooperative and mutually respectful relationships with stakeholders at all levels as well as diverse individuals and communities
    • Manage sensitive and confidential information
    • Demonstrate an authentic and enthusiastic interest in the mission of the university
    • Optimize travel planning and execution
    • Work frequently on evenings and weekends
    • Maintain a valid driver’s license and possess the ability to safely and effectively drive