Manager, Foundation Relations

About us

Independent Sector (IS) is the nation's membership organization for nonprofits and philanthropy. Our vision is for a charitable sector that is healthy, trusted, and equitable and helps all people in the United States thrive in a vibrant civil society and just democracy. We unite nonprofits and philanthropy to strengthen the charitable sector, identifying structural challenges and mobilizing around policy and practice solutions. Independent Sector aims for a sector where charitable organizations are financially robust; powered by a thriving workforce that reflects the communities they serve; trusted, well-governed, and effective; and informed and active advocates.

Driven by the deep recognition of our impact, our organization is growing to meet the need for our services. At IS, we are seeking passionate individuals with a deep understanding of the social sector and a commitment to strengthening nonprofit institutions that, in turn, strengthen our nation. We deeply value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we welcome those who bring their whole selves to our work. In this role, you will have a unique opportunity to shape the future of our team and our sector. If you are ready to make a meaningful impact, drive transformative change, and lead with purpose and passion, we invite you to join us in advancing this critical mission.

Summary

The Manager, Foundation Relations will assist with the foundation partnership portfolio and steward successful and sustainable foundation relationships that support the work of IS. While the Manager will contribute to the full scope of the foundation portfolio, the incumbent will service, renew and upgrade a discreet portfolio of current general support and program-restricted foundation partners, and collaborate on fundraising efforts (prospect research, outreach, solicitation, and stewardship) to meet annual revenue goals. The Manager will work closely with the Vice President of Institutional Advancement to develop strategies for acquiring and managing new foundation partners and assist with developing and implementing long-term engagement strategies for current and prospective partners. The Manager will also support cross-team initiatives and special projects that strengthen IS's foundation partnerships. IS adheres to a hybrid working model. All staff are currently required to work from the IS office Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. 

Please note all applicants are required to submit a cover letter and a writing sample. Under the "Resume Section", you must also upload a cover letter and a writing sample. 

Essential Job Functions

• Develop general operating, project/program-specific proposals, reports, and substantive updates across Independent Sector's established program areas, in collaboration with and under the guidance of the Vice President of Institutional Advancement, additional Partnership team staff, and key programs, communications, and finance staff.
• Manage and grow a discreet portfolio of foundation funders, leading cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship to ensure strategic growth and renewals.
• Assist in identifying, researching, and cultivating prospective new foundation partners to achieve budgeted and programmatic goals.
• Provide unsurpassed customer service to current and prospective foundation partners including check-in calls, project updates, "in-person" meetings as needed.
• Maintain renewal calendar for current foundation partners, alerting relevant partnership, finance, and program teams of important dates and timelines for reporting.
• Work with the finance team to review outstanding pledges, balances, and other financial information to ensure accurate accounting for grants, pledges, and pledge payments for foundation grants.
• Assist in developing and monitoring Independent Sector's annual and long-term revenue planning.
• Provide support to Independent Sector's National Summit, with a focus on engaging foundation partners and prospects in attendance.
• Support key administrative functions, including acknowledgements, updating the grants calendar, and tracking pertinent actions in Salesforce.
  
  

Education & Experience 

Bachelor's degree in Nonprofit Management, Public Policy, Business or another field that supports strong relationship management, persuasive and analytical skills plus 4-5 years of experience in fundraising, development, and/or relatable field.

Supervisory Responsibilities
None

Qualifications

• Knowledge of fundraising methods, techniques, and practices to develop new concepts and approaches.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex issues and programmatic work in compelling, funder-aligned language.
• Experience in funder research and analysis, including prospecting and aligning donor interests with organizational priorities.
• Proven ability to build strong relationships and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including internal staff and foundation representatives.
• Strong project management skills, with a proven track record of meeting deadlines and managing multiple priorities with precision. Working knowledge of Salesforce and prospect research tools.
• Ability to work successfully as a member of a team and independently with limited supervision.
• Skill in identifying basic problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Sound judgement and discretion when handling sensitive donor and organizational information.
• Working knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite of products.
• Knowledge of the charitable sector and the philanthropic landscape.

Work Environment

The work environment is a typical office setting, with a usually quiet noise level. Up to 25% travel may be required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands

• Remaining in a stationary position, often sitting for prolonged periods.
• Communicating with others to exchange information.
• Repeating motions, such as typing or answering a phone, that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
• Assessing the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of work.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The selected candidate will be required to successfully pass a background check. 

Salary : $80,000 - $90,000