Development Manager

The Development Manager will lead prospect identification, research, cultivation, and solicitation efforts to secure major gifts ($50K+). This role will focus on identifying new funding opportunities, crafting compelling, donor-tailored proposals, and building a robust pipeline of prospective funders. It is highly preferred that this individual be based out of our Boston office, but remote arrangements or postings in one of our other US offices may be considered for the ideal candidate.

Duties and Responsibilities Responsibilities:

Prospect Identification, Research, and Cultivation

• Conduct thorough research to identify and evaluate new funding opportunities aligned with MASS’s initiatives and priorities.
• Build and maintain a detailed pipeline of prospective funders, tracking their interests and alignment with MASS’s goals.
• Develop tailored cultivation strategies for high-potential prospects in consultation with program leads and executive directors.
• Maintain an organized donor database grouped by studio, lab, and general fund, ensuring accurate tracking of deadlines and engagement activities.
• Collaborate with the Communications and Advocacy teams to inform donor engagement strategies.

Proposal Development and Solicitation

• Craft compelling, donor-centered proposals that align funder interests with MASS’s mission and initiatives.
• Manage proposal production schedules, coordinating input from program, studio, and lab leads to ensure timely and high-quality submissions.
• Submit finalized proposals after securing approvals from the Senior Principal of Philanthropy and Advocacy and executive directors.

Collaboration and Coordination

• Oversee the Kigali Studio Development Manager and coordinate their workflow related to Africa Studio fundraising.
• Track donor engagement activities, proposal submissions, and outcomes to refine cultivation and solicitation strategies.
• Provide regular updates on the status of prospects, proposals, and funding opportunities.

Tracking and Reporting

• Track donor engagement activities, proposal submissions, and outcomes to refine cultivation and solicitation strategies.
• Analyze data from cultivation activities to inform future fundraising strategies and priorities.
• Coordinate internal reporting materials for leadership and Co-EDs.

Qualifications:

• Exceptional proposal writing and communication skills.
• Strong research and analytical abilities.
• Meticulous attention to detail and follow-through.
• Proficiency in donor management systems and research tools.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, capable of managing complex schedules and meeting tight deadlines.
• Preferably has familiarity or experience in the architecture and design industry or the work of MASS.