Grants & Special Projects Development Lead

Association of Fundraising Professionals; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Association of Fundraising Professionals in Milwaukee seeks a Development Manager, Grants and Special Projects, to advance fundraising programs and grant initiatives. The role emphasizes managing multiple campaigns, coordinating volunteers, and maintaining donor relations.

The position requires 5+ years in nonprofit development, strong organizational and communication skills, and experience with fundraising platforms.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in nonprofit development, grant writing, fundraising, program management, or related field.
• Experience with grant proposals and donor stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Track fundraising metrics, revenue, and expenses to support decision‑making and efficiency.
• Process campaign vendor invoices with accuracy and timeliness.
• Recruit, coach, and follow up with volunteers for sponsor activations.
• Research funding opportunities and write/submit foundation, corporate, and government proposals.
• Maintain grant calendars, reporting deadlines, budgets, and compliance docs.
• Support strategic projects from planning through implementation and evaluation.
• Collaborate with sponsors and development team to manage special project sponsorships and delivery.
• Prepare proposals, donor communications, and development reports.
• Track pipelines, outcomes, and project progress for leadership.
• Maintain files and sponsor/donor databases to track fundraising efforts.
• Coordinate with volunteers to develop short/long-term special projects.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Communications

Time management

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Cvent

Higher Logic

Monday.com

Smartsheet

Office suite

CRM systems

Data entry tools

Job description

Association of Fundraising Professionals in Milwaukee seeks a Development Manager, Grants and Special Projects, to advance fundraising programs and grant initiatives. The role emphasizes managing multiple campaigns, coordinating volunteers, and maintaining donor relations.

The position requires 5+ years in nonprofit development, strong organizational and communication skills, and experience with fundraising platforms.