Grants Manager

Summary 

The Grants Manager is a critical member of the Development Department who oversees a portfolio of private foundations, while supporting and tracking government and public grant application processes across the organization. This role will have primary responsibility for ensuring that all grant opportunities are strategically leveraged to their fullest extent, to support the work of the Land Trust. The Grants Manager will support the fundraising efforts of the Development, Communications and Marketing, Conservation, and Stewardship teams. 

Essential Duties: 

• Write, edit and submit strategic grant proposals for unrestricted and project-based support. 
• Track and fulfill all reporting requirements and deliverables for active private grants.
• Maintain a comprehensive private grants calendar and manage a pipeline of grant deadlines. 
• Conduct prospect research and vet grant opportunities. 
• Act as resource to program staff who are developing funding for projects; support public grant application processes, as needed. 
• Develop relationships with funders across the region, to understand opportunities and challenges, inform proposal strategies, and solicit feedback. 
• Develop knowledge on local, regional, and national issues related to Columbia Land Trust’s mission to serve as an effective spokesperson for the organization. 
• Engage with culturally diverse groups, including funders, colleagues, donors, volunteers, community partners, and the public in a manner that is welcoming and inclusive. 
• Research and support best practices in all aspects of grants funding and ensure ethical adherence to gift-related policies and procedures, as defined by the Association of Fundraising Professionals and the Land Trust Alliance. 

Qualifications 

Columbia Land Trust seeks applicants with skills and experience in some of the listed tasks or similar work. Training will be provided to ensure qualified candidates can safely and effectively perform the job. Accommodation may be available for individuals with disabilities to enable them to fulfill essential job functions. 

Required Skills & Experience 

The following are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability needed to perform the duties of the job. Some experience with one or more of the following is preferred, with some training available to help build on existing skills to reach the skill level needed. Both professional and personal life experience will be considered. 

• At least three years of experience in nonprofit fundraising and/or grants management. 
• Excellent writing and copyediting skills, as well as the ability to carefully adhere to brand guidelines. 
• Ability to communicate clearly and collaborate effectively. 
• Sharp organizational skills that allow for the tracking and documentation of work over time, along with the management of multiple priorities simultaneously. 
• Enthusiasm for conservation and eagerness to learn. 

Preferred Skills and Experience 

• Familiarity with Blackbaud Raisers Edge (or other donor database experience). 
• Experience engaging in personal and organizational diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
• Possesses effective problem-solving skills, adaptability, and strong interpersonal abilities. 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.