Grants & Research Manager

POSITION SUMMARY The Grants & Research Manager leads grant management and acquisition, including prospect research, proposal development, and post-award management. This role is responsible for securing and stewarding funding from foundations, corporations, and government entities by effectively communicating Dr. Phillips Center’s mission, vision, and programs.Working cross-functionally, the Grants & Research Manager ensures alignment with programmatic goals, compliance requirements, and reporting standards to support effective grant acquisition and management. This position carries an annual fundraising goal of $500,000.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIESGrant Strategy, Research & StewardshipManage and grow a portfolio of institutional funders while identifying and cultivating new opportunities.Conduct strategic prospect research using funding tools and resources to align opportunities with organizational priorities.Create a checklist of required documents/information needed for each potential grant submission. Work with Institutional Giving Officer in collecting the required information. Assist in organizing all documents for submission.Build and maintain strong relationships with local and national foundations through consistent engagement and stewardship.Proposal Development & SubmissionLead the development and submission of compelling grant proposals, including narratives, budgets, and supporting materials.Coordinate cross-departmental input to ensure accuracy, completeness, and alignment with programmatic goals.Contact potential donors to determine grant submission process and deadlines.Manage timelines, requirements, and submission processes to ensure timely delivery.Grant Management, Reporting & ComplianceOversee post-award activities, including tracking deliverables, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with grant agreements.Prepare and submit timely funder reports (quarterly, mid-year, and final), incorporating program outcomes and evaluation metrics.Review Grant Agreements and Contracts, as well as verify grant compliance by working with finance, education, marketing, corporate affairs, and other internal stakeholders.Monitor and ensure accurate documentation of performance data; utilize tools such as Tessitura to support reporting and future proposals.Collaboration, Systems & EngagementPartner with internal stakeholders to align grant efforts with programming objectives and auditing procedures.Maintain accurate CRM records, documenting research, funder interactions, and next steps.Coordinate funder meetings, site visits, and engagement opportunities; represent the organization at events and community initiatives.Leadership & Organizational AlignmentAs the organization grows, this role may expand it’s leadership responsibilities to include supervision of direct report(s), including hiring, onboarding, scheduling, and performance management.Uphold organizational policies, procedures, and core values while maintaining collaborative relationships across departments and partners.Demonstrate high standards of professionalism, diplomacy, patience, tact and customer service in all interactions.Perform other duties as assigned in support of fundraising and organizational goals.KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor’s degree required, with at least three (3) years of experience in grant writing and/or prospect research (individuals or foundations); Master’s degree or graduate-level research experience preferred.Two (2) years of experience with CRM and research tools required.Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word).Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.Ability to read, interpret, and work with financial reports.Previous supervisory experience preferred.SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT This position requires the ability to work a variable schedule, evenings, weekends, and holidays to meet operational needs.Expected to participate in the Grant Professionals Affinity Group.Required to attend at least one Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) luncheon annually.Must have reliable transportation for required off-site meetings and events (Mileage will be reimbursed at the Federal Mileage Rate).Dr. Phillips Center participates in an employment electronic eligibility verification program through E-Verify.