Development and Partnership Manager

Job Summary The Development and Partnerships Manager is responsible for securing funding and building strategic relationships to support an organization’s mission. This role combines grant writing, sponsorship development, and event coordination to drive revenue and community engagement. As a member of the Development team, this position plays a critical role in advancing the organization’s mission and visibility throughout the community.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, write, and manage grant proposals, including developing compelling narratives, assembling supporting materials, and ensuring timely submission of applications and reports.
• Identify, cultivate, and maintain relationships with donors, sponsors, and strategic partners to support long-term funding and collaboration opportunities.
• Develop and implement sponsorship strategies, including creating sponsorship packages, securing commitments, and managing deliverables and recognition.
• Plan and execute fundraising and community events from concept to completion, including logistics, vendor coordination, budgeting, and post-event evaluation.
• Track and report on fundraising activities, grant outcomes, and partnership performance to measure impact and inform strategy.
• Maintain accurate records of donors, grants, and sponsorships using CRM or database systems.
• Collaborate with leadership and program teams to align funding priorities with organizational goals and ensure consistent messaging.
• Monitor funding opportunities, industry trends, and best practices to identify new revenue streams and improve development efforts.
• Support stewardship efforts by preparing reports, updates, and communications to donors and partners to ensure continued engagement.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, business administration, public administration, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Experience: 2–5+ years of experience in fundraising, grant writing, partnerships, or event planning (level dependent on role). Proven success in writing and securing grants, sponsorships, or other funding sources. Experience planning and executing events, including logistics, budgeting, and vendor coordination. Strong relationship management experience with donors, sponsors, or community partners. Familiarity with CRM systems and donor databases (e.g., Bloomerang or similar tools). Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail and deadlines.
• Required Licenses, Certifications, and Training: Valid driver’s license.

Personal Attributes Anticipated

• Mission-Driven: Demonstrates a deep commitment to the mission and values of Catholic Charities of Ingham, Eaton & Clinton Counties, and incorporates them into daily work
• Collaborative Team Player: Thrives in a team environment, contributing positively and working effectively with others to achieve shared goals
• Solution-Oriented Problem Solver: Proactively identifies challenges and develops practical, innovative solutions to address them
• Culturally Sensitive: Demonstrates awareness and respect for the cultural diversity of both colleagues and clients, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment
• Integrity: Upholds a strong moral character, consistently doing what is right, and responsibly using time and resources to serve the organization’s mission

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• This position is on-site and may not be eligible for remote work
• Attendance at occasional meetings or events outside regular business hours is required
• The role involves working with sensitive or potentially traumatic information and direct interaction with individuals or families in crisis
• Physical requirements include frequent use of hands for handling objects, tools, or controls; talking, bending, squatting, twisting, climbing, kneeling, reaching, and occasionally lifting or carrying up to 30 pounds
• Vision requirements include close-up work, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus
• The work environment may involve varying degrees of physical discomfort and occasional loud noise
• Occasional driving, potentially with Clients, during the workday may be needed for operational purposes
• Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions

Comments: This job description is intended to outline the essential functions, general supplementary tasks, and key requirements for successful performance in this role. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Additional tasks may be assigned, and management reserves the right to modify duties as needed.