Manager, Partner Relations and Development

Job Title: Manager of Development and Partner RelationsReports To: President & CEOLocation: Washington, D.C. (Hybrid)Job SummaryThe Manager of Development and Partner Relations will lead the execution of the organization’s strategic fundraising and stewardship initiatives. This role is responsible for cultivating and expanding relationships with a diverse portfolio of donors and partners. The Manager will ensure high-level service through meticulous data management, prospect research, and the development of tailored engagement strategies. Key responsibilities include identifying organizational funding needs, managing donor communications, overseeing grant reporting, and supporting event-based fundraising efforts.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesPartner Relations & DevelopmentPortfolio Management: Achieve annual fundraising targets for assigned donor portfolios, focusing on retention, acquisition, and increased year-over-year engagement.Strategic Planning: Collaborate with executive leadership to design solicitation strategies and year-round engagement plans to maximize ROI and donor impact.Donor Alignment: Identify donor objectives that align with the organization’s mission and work with program staff to create meaningful engagement opportunities.Data Oversight: Maintain accurate, real-time donor records in the CRM to facilitate seamless outreach, cultivation, and stewardship.Communications: Draft high-quality correspondence, grant proposals, and impact reports for funders.Compliance: Ensure timely and accurate submission of grant applications and required reporting to private and public funders.Event Support: Partner with internal teams to plan and execute fundraising galas, donor stewardship events, and volunteer activities.Marketing Collaboration: Assist the marketing department in developing collateral, appeals, and digital content related to development goals.Cross-Functional Support: Provide support across departments to ensure organizational continuity and participate in staff meetings and special projects as directed.Minimum QualificationsEducation: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, or a related field.Experience: At least three (3) years of progressive experience in professional fundraising or business development. Charitable fundraising in a university setting is acceptable on a case-by-case basis.Proven Track Record: Demonstrated success in donor identification, solicitation, and relationship stewardship.Preferred QualificationsThree (3) or more years of development experience specifically within a national non-profit or advocacy environment.Direct experience in grant writing and managing high-volume prospect research.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesSubject Matter Expertise: Familiarity with federally funded educational access programs and national advocacy for underserved populations.Technical Proficiency: Advanced skill in using Microsoft 365, project management tools (e.g., Asana), and industry-standard CRM/Donor Databases (e.g., iMIS, Salesforce, or Raiser’s Edge).Strategic Thinking: Ability to identify new revenue streams and think creatively about donor engagement.Organization: Strong project management skills with the ability to manage sensitive, confidential information under tight deadlines.Communication: Exceptional oral and written communication skills for diverse audiences, including board members and major corporate partners.Working ConditionsBased in Washington, D.C., with a hybrid work schedule.Requires occasional travel and attendance at evening/weekend events or seminars.Physical ability to occasionally lift and carry event materials (approx. 25–50 lbs).Other RequirementsA demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with experience working collaboratively with constituents from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.