Research Associate

Job Description

At the Canadian Red Cross, we are guided by our fundamental principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. We help people and communities in Canada and around the world in times of need and support them in strengthening their resilience.

Starting with the hiring process, we are committed to having an accessible, diverse, inclusive, and barrier-free work environment where everyone can reach their full potential. We encourage all qualified persons to apply, particularly Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, racialized people, and people with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations, and others who share our values and contribute to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.

We are looking for a Research Associate who will collaborate with the Manager, Prospect Research. The Research Associate is responsible for supporting the Philanthropy Research initiatives and is integral to the success of the CRC fundraising program. The Associate is responsible for all aspects of prospect research and prospect development. The primary responsibilities are to conduct research on donors and prospects; identify and evaluate prospects; build prospect pools for identified priorities; and assist with the proper management of prospect portfolios for Relationship managers. All research must meet the highest confidentiality, quality, accuracy and timeliness standards. As part of the Philanthropy Services Team, the Associate will demonstrate a high level of commitment to client service and professionalism.

In this role, you will:

• Conduct thorough research to develop high-quality and well-written profiles on individuals, corporations/businesses, foundations, and any other organization that will support CRC’s fundraising activities, with a focus on major gifts, volunteer-led campaigns and corporate giving activities.
• Prepare event bios for individuals attending CRC events and identify natural partners.
• Identify and qualify prospects for CRC’s fundraising priorities and maintain a robust major gifts pipeline. - Employ a range of tools for identifying and qualifying prospects, including data mining and relationship mapping, and craft persuasive rationales for qualifying prospects.
• Ensure that accurate and up-to-date donor records are maintained and appropriate reports and queries are conducted to identify prospects and upgrade opportunities for Major Gifts and Corporate fundraising activities.
• Conduct regular database queries, generating reports and identifying new opportunities to further engage CRC donors.
• Monitor alerts on specific themes, issues, and prospects.
• Contribute to the advancement of Prospect Research at the CRC by participating in planning sessions and team meetings, and suggesting new best practices, tools, and techniques.

What we are looking for:

• The ideal candidate will have a university degree in business, marketing, research, information science or other related field and at least three years’ experience in prospect research or similar role.
• Bilingualism (French and English) is mandatory
• Accuracy in collecting, storing and retrieving information is essential, as are strong research skills.
• Demonstrated ability to obtain and relay information clearly, concisely and timely.
• Demonstrated ability to handle matters of discretion, highly sensitive and confidential material and possess a high degree of integrity.
• Excellent written communication skills and ability to communicate effectively with staff and volunteers.
• Understanding of relevant privacy legislation and ethical obligations under the Donor Bill of Rights and APRA’s ethics and professional standards.
• High level of proficiency and accuracy in the Microsoft suite of products, Fundraising Databases (BBCRM experience an asset) and Tool Management (JIRA software experience an asset).
  

Working conditions:

• Most of this work will be performed in a safe and clean environment.
• Travel may be required for meetings and training purposes.
• This position will require working non-traditional hours especially during times of disaster or appeal.
• Full vaccination against COVID-19 is mandatory for this position and operation (the CRC will however adhere to its duty to accommodate those who are unable to be fully vaccinated for a reason related to a human right protected ground)

NOTE: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

About the Organization

The Canadian Red Cross helps people affected by emergencies and disasters—situations ranging from a housefire to a flood that disrupts an entire region of the country. Following a disaster, the Red Cross works with governments and other humanitarian organizations to provide for people's basic needs—food, clothing, shelter, first aid, emotional support and family reunification. The specific services offered are based on the community's needs and the role that their Red Cross has in the local disaster response plan. The Canadian Red Cross works overseas in cooperation with other members of the International Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement: 185 National Red Cross or Red Crescent Societies, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross. With the support of the Canadian public and the Canadian International Development Agency, we work in situations of war and natural disaster to bring urgently needed relief items, reunite families and help rebuild communities. The Canadian Red Cross supports and manages development and rehabilitation programs, ranging from primary health care to water sanitation. Each year, the Canadian Red Cross sends about 100 professional relief workers on overseas missions.