Director of Grants & Foundation Relations

Canisius University • Buffalo, NY

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Grants and Foundation Relations is responsible for leading a comprehensive foundation relations and grant-seeking program that generates significant philanthropic support for institutional priorities. This position oversees the full lifecycle of foundation fundraising, including prospect research, proposal development, submission, and stewardship of grants. This is a full-time position reporting to the Vice President for Advancement.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree is required.
• Minimum of 5 years of successful experience in foundation relations, grant writing, and/or government relations, preferably in higher education or a nonprofit setting.
• Proven track record of securing grant funding from private foundations and/or federal or state governments.
• Experience managing the full grant lifecycle, from research through reporting.
• Demonstrated expertise in grant writing and proposal development.
• Strong understanding of cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies specific to foundation fundraising.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to clearly and persuasively communicate the university’s mission, programs, and impact.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively.
• Self-motivated, goal-oriented, and results-driven.
• Eligible to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• A master’s degree is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Secure funding from foundations and other government and non-government grant-making organizations to support institutional priorities.
• Serve as the primary writer and coordinator for grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and related materials that clearly articulate funding priorities.
• Manage all grant administration activities, including reporting, compliance requirements, and post-award stewardship.
• Ensure timely submission of high-quality, competitive proposals aligned with institutional goals.
• Partner with faculty and campus leaders to identify funding opportunities and develop proposals that translate institutional priorities into fundable projects with clear outcomes.
• Design and implement a comprehensive foundation relations strategy to strengthen and grow foundation partnerships.
• Build and manage relationships with foundation program officers and representatives.
• Develop and execute strategies to increase engagement and philanthropic support from foundation partners.
• Coordinate stewardship activities, including recognition, reporting, and ongoing engagement.
• Collaborate with colleagues in the Advancement office to ensure alignment of foundation activity with other institutional fundraising goals and activity.
• Regularly research, qualify, and rate the Foundation prospect pool.
• Identify, research, qualify, and prioritize foundation prospects using tools such as Foundation Directory Online and other resources.
• Maintain and manage a robust pipeline of grant opportunities.
• Monitor trends in foundation funding priorities and adapt strategies accordingly.
• Track proposals, deadlines, and outcomes to ensure a strategic and coordinated approach.
• Develop a government relations program that will promote the university, its strategic initiatives, and its accomplishments to a broad array of city, county, state and federal elected officials, appointed staff, and government employees.
• Stay apprised of roles and assignments of government officials, arrange appropriate meetings for the President and other university leaders as appropriate, produce written materials and presentations, arrange on-campus events and develop such other strategies as necessary to advance the university’s interests with governmental entities.
• Serve as the university’s representative on the government relations committee of the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities, the federal relations committee of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities, and other lobbying entities to stay abreast of current issues and advance the interests of the university.
• Work with the Office of the President and University Communications to promote, support and execute community relations initiatives that involve government officials and intersect with the strategic goals of the university.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Insurance Benefits – Health, Dental, Vision, Life and Long-Term Disability available the first of the month after the employee’s date of hire
• 403(b) with Company Contribution – Plan for your future with confidence – contribution from the university is available after one year of employment
• Paid Time Off – Includes vacation time, personal time, sick time, and paid holidays
• Tuition Benefits – Available for full-time employees and their qualified dependents

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director