Development Manager

West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology • Grand Rapids, MI

2d • $46,000 - $49,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Development Manager is an integral member of the development team, leveraging resources and engagement to advance WMCAT’s mission-based programming and community-facing work. This position supports overall fundraising goals by managing a portfolio of grants, corporate sponsorships, and the Opportunity Curator monthly giving program, all within a collaborative environment.
The Development Manager reports to and works closely with the Director of Development, along with all members of the development and communications departments.
The ideal candidate is a strong writer and communicator who is adept in managing detailed, process-driven work while staying connected to community and building funder relationships.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education/lived experience.
• Three years of relevant work experience, grant writing preferred, or alternatively in fund development, communications, and/or project management.
• Exceptional writing and verbal communication skills.
• Grant-writing experience preferred, or other formal writing experience.
• Knowledge of fundraising and sponsorship tactics for nonprofit settings.
• Ability to use asset-framing language when communicating WMCAT’s work with stakeholders.
• Excellent organizational skills and desire to maximize efficiency; prioritization of multiple deadlines concurrently.
• Strong attention to detail and process.
• Proficiency in working with computers, software systems, and related platforms; such as Microsoft Office Suite, donor databases, and grant application websites.
• Ability to work independently and be self-motivated within a team environment.
• Consistent personal transportation will be necessary.
• This position is in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The candidate should be comfortable working in-person as responsibilities necessitate, with flexibility for remote work at other times. WMCAT's regular office hours are Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with the Director of Development to manage a portfolio of grants, including writing grant proposals and reports.
• Work with the communications team to leverage mission-aligned messaging for grant proposals and donor relationships.
• Manage grant processes, including coordinating content needed from program teams, tracking deadlines for proposals and reports, and anticipating needs from other departments.
• Research and prospect new grant opportunities.
• Support the Director of Development and Senior Director of Development + Communications as applicable in coordinating meetings with designated corporate funders.
• Solicit event and program sponsorships.
• Ensure corporate sponsorship benefits are fulfilled, working across internal teams as needed.
• Work with the full development team to support fundraising events.
• Use strategic storytelling and cross-departmental collaboration to curate engagement efforts for monthly donors 4x per year – including behind-the-scenes impact stories, unique merchandise, and invitations to exclusive opportunities.
• Steward existing relationships with monthly donors and actively recruit new donors to grow the program and increase revenue.
• Maintain a commitment to the mission and vision of WMCAT.
• Demonstrate a willingness and desire to grow professionally, learn new skills, and contribute to a culture of inclusivity and equity.
• Represent WMCAT at occasional designated events throughout the year, which may occur outside of standard scheduled hours.
• Adhere to the Association of Fundraising Professionals Code of Ethics.
• Desire to align with WMCAT’s values (listed below).

Benefits

• 15 days of PTO
• 15 paid holidays
• Birthday day off
• Half-day Fridays during the summer
• Simple IRA with employer match of up to 3%
• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental, and Vision), premium 65% (average) paid by employer
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary, and AD&D)
• Paid Family Leave
• Professional development and opportunities for personal growth

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees