ASSOCIATE, STRATEGIC PHILANTHROPY & ENGAGEMENT

Sanford Burnham Prebys is much more than a research facility and hub for innovation; it’s a vibrant global community of talented scientists and researchers from over 30 countries. This worldwide representation enriches our perspectives and enhances our creative approach to solving complex scientific challenges.

We strive to be leaders not only in biomedical research but also in creating an environment where excellence thrives through collaboration across cultures and backgrounds. Our mission is to advance the biomedical sciences by cultivating the next generation of scientific leaders, providing meaningful opportunities for researchers of all backgrounds to learn, innovate, and make breakthrough discoveries that improve human health.

Together, we translate science into health.

The duties and responsibilities contained in the job description are intended to be examples of the accountabilities for which the person in the position will demonstrate competency through performance. The job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Duties and responsibilities are subject to change and other duties may be assigned as necessary.

Position Summary:

The Strategic Philanthropy & Engagement Associate is responsible for supporting the Vice President, Philanthropy in advancing donor engagement, leadership communications, and strategic initiatives that reflect the mission and impact of Sanford Burnham Prebys. This role serves as a key liaison between executive leadership and external stakeholders, ensuring high-quality stewardship and effective coordination of philanthropic activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Strategic Partnership
  1. Assist the Vice President of Philanthropy in planning and executing donor meetings, campus visits, tours and stewardship activities.
  2. Coordinate materials and presentations for Board of Trustees and Committee meetings.
  3. Track action items and manage follow-ups between the VP and executive leadership.
  4. Draft, edit, and proofread high-level correspondence, reports, and presentations.
  5. Ghostwrite communications aligned with the Institute’s mission and voice.
  6. Support travel arrangements and expense reporting for the VP.
  7. Maintain confidentiality and discretion in all communications.
• Donor Engagement and Events
  1. Manage logistics for donor tours, luncheons, and salon-style gatherings.
  2. Prepare briefing materials that emphasize the impact of philanthropy and research.
  3. Ensure personalized follow-up and stewardship for donor interactions.
  4. Maintain confidentiality and discretion in handling sensitive communications and documents.
• Proposal Development
  1. Collaborate with Philanthropy and Communications teams to develop customized proposals and presentations.
  2. Ensure materials reflect donor interests and demonstrate philanthropic impact.
• Project Management
  1. Lead coordination of campaign initiatives and special events
  2. Facilitate cross-departmental meeting preparation and follow-up.
  3. Ensure alignment with organizational priorities and timelines.
• Perform other related tasks, duties and responsibilities as required, assigned or directed.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree.

Experience: 

• 5–7 years of experience in philanthropy, advancement, executive administration, or project management.
• Experience working with nonprofit boards or leadership teams.

Certifications, Licenses, etc: None required

Other Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to engage confidently with senior leaders, researchers, and donors.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple high-priority projects with attention to detail.
• Familiarity with donor databases (e.g., Raiser’s Edge), CRM systems, and project/event management tools.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Zoom, Teams, and SurveyMonkey.
• Ability to learn and adopt new technologies.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving.
• Collaborative and service-oriented mindset.
• High level of discretion, integrity, and emotional intelligence.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Passion for nonprofit work and advancing human health through research.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Direct: None

Indirect: None

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. 

When working on-site, the work environment is in a standard office setting. Frequently exposed to low to moderate noise, various odors, temperature changes, and equipment with moving parts, including but not limited to computers, phones, printers, and other standard office equipment.

If working from home, you are responsible for ensuring a quiet, organized, and comfortable setting, free from significant noise or distractions. This role requires the use of standard home office equipment, including but not limited to computers and phones. As you may be exposed to minimal noise and temperature variations depending on your home setup, it's important to maintain a workspace that supports productivity and well-being. Reliable internet connection and a suitable workstation are essential to fulfill job responsibilities effectively.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to execute those physical activities required to perform the essential functions including, but not limited to, regular sitting and being mobile; continual communicating both in person and on the telephone; regular keyboarding; regular reading of both print and digital material; and all other activities required to perform essential functions.

Location: Onsite (La Jolla, California).

Compensation: The expected hiring rate for this position is $75,000.00 - $90,000.00/annually commensurate with experience.

We welcome talented individuals of all backgrounds regardless of gender, sex, religion, race, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, perceived disability, pregnancy, pregnancy-related condition, reproductive health decisions, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDS, marital status, covered veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations. We are proud to be an equal employment opportunity employer.

As part of this commitment, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact our Benefits Team at (858) 646-3100 or via e-mail at benefits@sbpdiscovery.org

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