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/RESPONSIBILITIES Grant Strategy, Research & Stewardship • Manage 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 & Submission • Lead 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 & Compliance • Oversee 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 & Engagement • Partner 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 Alignment • As 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.
