Prospect Research Manager

At ZSL, we are working to restore wildlife and create a world where nature thrives. To achieve this bold vision, we rely on the support of an engaged and growing community of philanthropists who share our passion for protecting the natural world. The Prospect Research Manager will be instrumental in identifying and unlocking the potential of these supporters.

This strategic role sits at the heart of our Development team, building and maintaining a data-led pipeline of high-impact donors to advance ZSL’s conservation science, fieldwork, and education. By leading on prospect research, philanthropic analysis, and network mapping, the postholder will help ensure ZSL’s fundraising efforts are focused, proactive, and aligned with our organisational priorities.

Following the implementation of a new CRM system, the Prospect Research Manager will also play a key role in embedding best practices in data management and prospecting across the team. From crafting research tools to spotting new funding opportunities, this role will directly support the success of ZSL’s fundraising programmes – and, ultimately, our mission to save wildlife around the world.

 Key responsibilities:  

• Experience in wealth screening, capacity assessment and affinity analysis to provide propensity scoring.
• Knowledge of data protection regulations and how it applies to prospect research and development (e.g. GDPR and the Fundraising Regulator Code of Practice).
• Experience of successfully implementing a prospect development strategy to support increasing and diversifying income.
• Proven experience in identifying and conducting detailed research on high-net-worth individuals, trusts and corporates for the higher education / charity sector.
• Evidenced track record of supporting fundraisers with insights in fundraising to achieve six or seven figure donations.
• Experience of using databases within fundraising for prospect management and reporting and making appropriate data management recommendations (Tessitura would be an advantage).
• Knowledge of the principles of philanthropic analysis, relationship mapping and connections, and what makes a good fundraising prospect.
• Demonstrable ability to engage, share expertise, and appropriately challenge senior stakeholders, including CEO with strong interpersonal skills and discretion.

We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage. We are committed to ensuring our teams can bring their authentic selves to work without fear of discrimination. ZSL has active equality networks for our staff with lived experience and those who provide active allyship in Race and Culture, Team Pride, Disability Network, and Menopause Network, complemented by our strategic EDI Steering Group.