UP Professional and Support
DEPARTMENT OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
SENIOR PROSPECT RESEARCHER
PEROMNES POST LEVEL 7
In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy.
The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.
PURPOSE
To support the University of Pretoria’s fundraising and advancement efforts by identifying, researching, qualifying and profiling potential high-net-worth, corporate, and foundation donors. The Senior Prospect Researcher provides strategic insight through the collection, analysis, and dissemination of biographical, financial, and philanthropic business intelligence information to inform donor engagement strategies, optimise prospect management, and contribute to the development of a robust donor pipeline. This role plays a critical part in enabling data-driven decision-making and advancing the institution’s resource mobilisation goals.
THE KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
- Identify and qualify high-potential individual, corporate, and foundation donors who align with the University’s strategic priorities and funding needs;
- Develop comprehensive donor and prospect profiles, including financial capacity, philanthropic history, and affiliations, to support leadership and fundraising initiatives;
- Implement a research-driven strategy to build and maintain a strong donor pipeline, using data analytics, prospect scoring, and market intelligence;
- Ensure donor and prospect data is captured accurately, ethically, and in compliance with POPIA, GDPR, and institutional protocols;
- Provide actionable insights and strategic recommendations to fundraising teams, faculty, and leadership to support targeted campaigns, stewardship, and donor engagement initiatives.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
- A Bachelor’s degree;
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A minimum of 5 years’ experience in:
- Working in a fundraising and donor-focused environment.
- Multiple areas of prospect and market research.
- Data resource utilisation;
- Prospect development;
- Working with donations and sponsorships;
- Internet searches;
- Administration related to database utilisation.
REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):
- Excellent computer skills (MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint);
- Working knowledge of large CRM databases;
- Knowledge of donor types and understanding of fundraising processes, or cycles of engagement: identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship;
- Ability to write briefing documents or instructions, distilling large amounts of information into relevant facts and context;
- Critical thinking;
- Attention to detail and maintain accuracy while working under pressure;
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to share information and explain its’ relevance;
- Ability to work on multiple projects.
ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:
- Additional diploma or certificate in Public Relations or Marketing;
- Additional diploma or certificate in Fundraising;
- Relevant experience in the higher education sector or NPO.
The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent’s level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines. UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.
Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za
In applying for this post, please attach:
- A comprehensive CV;
- Certified copies of qualifications;
- Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.
CLOSING DATE: 30 July 2025
No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.
ENQUIRIES: Masenei Makana, Tel: (012) 420 5261 for application-related enquiries, and Josiah Mavundla, Tel: (012) 420 3045 for enquiries relating to the post content.
Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 30 September 2025, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.
The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.
In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to candidates from under-represented designated groups.
All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials.
The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions.