Foundation Relations Manager (Huntsville, AL)

Erin Robertson

JOB DESCRIPTION

 

 

 

Position Title:     Foundation Relations Manager                                                         Apply at: hudsonalpha.org

                                   

Department:      Advancement                                                                                              FLSA Status: Salaried/Exempt

                 

Reports to:           Director of Advancement                                                                       Effective Date:  05/2015

 

 

INSTITUTE OVERVIEW

HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology is a non-profit facility with the mission to use biotechnology and basic biological research to make important discoveries, improve human health, stimulate economic development and inspire young people to seek careers in science. Located in Cummings Research Park in Huntsville, Alabama, one of the world’s leading science and technology business parks, the four-story, 270,000 square foot building contains state-of-the-art laboratories for biological research and development in the areas of genomics, genetics and personalized medicine.

 

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

 

The Office of Advancement is responsible for all aspects of fundraising for the Institute's missions, inclusive of major gifts, annual giving, special events, planned giving, workplace giving, stewardship, and community relations. HudsonAlpha is in the planning stages of its first comprehensive campaign effort to ensure that the Institute stays on the leading edge of discovery and enterprise. The Department develops legacy-level opportunities to attract large donors (naming, building, scholarships, etc.) and supports fundraising for the HudsonAlpha Institute Foundation, designed to augment other funding sources.

 

POSITION SUMMARY

The Foundation Relations manager is responsible for collaborating with the Director of Advancement to manage HudsonAlpha's comprehensive foundation fundraising program, in support of the Institute's search operations, education special projects, special events, and all of necessary funding programs.   The Foundations Relations Manager will also assist in all fundraising efforts within the department.

 

JOB SPECIFIC TASKS

• Develop creative, individually tailored proposals for each solicitation and assist with the fulfillment and reporting requirements for all institutional donors.
• Produce correspondence regarding grants administration, including acknowledgement letters, queries and cover letters.
• Prepare grant application documents, including budgets, expense reports and bios.
• Copy/edit and proofread proposals, applications, reports and other documents.
• Create an active pipeline of prospects through identification, research and tracking of donor activity.
• Update the prospect lists for Board and staff vetting using the database as a central management resource.
• Assist with the photocopying, filing and mailing of grant proposals and reports.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

 

 

EDUCATION AND REQUIRED SKILLS

 

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum three years of experience in institutional fundraising.
• Success in the identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of foundation grants.

 

Required Skills

• Strong understanding of non-profit accounting standards for preparation of financial reports and programmatic budgets for funders.
• Excellent management, organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Strong leadership, time management and multi-tasking skills, coupled with the ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.
• Superior oral, written communication and presentation skills; detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy and clarity.
• Strong analytic and problem solving skills and the ability to negotiate with tact and diplomacy.
• Strong computer aptitude; skill in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; knowledge of and skill using online and other resources to identify and research foundation and government grantors; experience with donor database management; proficiency working with the Raiser's Edge database.
• Strong initiative, self-confidence, creativity and entrepreneurial skills; enjoys working as a team player but also has the capability to work independently and as a self-starter.
• An innate ability to inspire those working toward accomplishing common objectives and goals.
• A strong ability and willingness to solicit funds.
• Professional demeanor and dress is preferred.
• Personal integrity and the ability to inspire confidence and trust.
• Understanding of Biotechnology desired.
• Ability to travel locally and overnight when needed.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

 

The physical requirements and environmental conditions of this position consist primarily of:

• Frequent standing, sitting and walking
• Continuous mental and visual attention, requiring constant alertness or activity.