About Nicki Sayers
Nicki is a leading expert in prospect research, and has over twenty years of experience as a fundraiser. Nicki works with charities and schools on a freelance basis offering assistance with all aspects of prospect research and management — from discovery through to pitching the ask.
Formerly the Manager, Donor and Prospect Research at Victoria University of Wellington, Nicki is regularly asked to share her specialist knowledge and has presented webinars and conferences for FINZ and Educate Plus.
Testimonials
“Astute is the word that springs to mind when I think of Nicki; I can’t recommend her highly enough. She’s knowledgeable, experienced and has always been responsive to our needs; she’s worked with the Starship Philanthropy Team since 2022 and in that time has done everything from re-sizing and qualifying our portfolios, through to researching and writing exceptional one-off individual profiles.
Nicki is also a joy to work with, she feels like a member of our team. We’re grateful to be one of her clients and can wholeheartedly attest that her services provide an exceptional return on investment.”
Philippa Eriksson
Philanthropy Manager, Starship Foundation
“I have worked with Nicki whilst the Fundraising and Partnerships Manager at Outward Bound and currently in my role as Director of Advancement at Wellington College. Nicki is a skilled researcher who understands the needs of organisations and charities to connect authentically with their supporter base and build lasting relationships that achieve great outcomes.
Nicki is skilled, reliable, flexible when research priorities change, and works closely with you and your team to get the best results within your budget. I regularly recommend Nicki to schools, charities, and organisations, who ask for my advice on how to best grow their programmes.”
Karla Paotonu
Director of Advancement, Wellington College
“I have no hesitation in saying that Nicki is the most experienced and well-regarded prospect researcher in Aotearoa New Zealand. With a broad range of experience, Nicki has a knack for relationship building, and providing strategic and, most importantly, implementable fundraising advice for organisations of different sizes, visions and structures.
Whether you’re looking to establish a bequest programme, secure major gifts or optimise current fundraising streams, Nicki’s advice is invaluable.”