Development and Grant Writing Manager - ReadyCT

ReadyCT Development and Grant Writing Manager

Location: 350 Church Street, 10th Floor / Hartford, CT 06103 

Website:readyCT.org

Salary Range: 70-85k

Who We Are:

ReadyCT is a statewide 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works to advance academic excellence and career-connected learning for all public school students in Connecticut through collaboration with business, civic, and education leaders. ReadyCT accomplishes its mission by offering dynamic career readiness programming in school buildings that, with intention, bridges the gap between public education and the employers who will, ultimately, hire their future workforce from our public schools. Businesses continue to respond well to the programming; last year, over 230 Connecticut businesses of all sizes and across all sectors worked alongside ReadyCT to inform our programming efforts.

ReadyCT also maintains a presence in legislative circles, advocating for policies that (1) systematically improve Connecticut public education, with an emphasis on advancing access and equity, and (2) advance workforce shortage solutions (from a K-12 perspective) that aid in providing Connecticut employers with the talent they need to sustain and grow their businesses. 

ReadyCT is an affiliate of CBIA, the CT Business & Industry Association, which is the largest, most representative business organization in the state. The affiliation is leveraged in support of all ReadyCT efforts.

What We’re Looking For:

Reporting to the deputy director, the development and grant writing manager will play a crucial role in advancing ReadyCT's mission by leading and implementing a high-impact development strategy. In partnership with the executive director and the deputy director, this strategic individual will inform all aspects of fundraising, including cultivating and stewarding donor relationships, and identifying and pursuing public/private grant funding. 

What You’ll Do:

Under the supervision of the deputy director and other identified team members as may be needed, responsibilities and activities will include: 

Donor Development and Cultivation:

• Identify and research high-potential individual, corporate, and foundation prospects.
• Conduct thorough prospect qualification and research to assess giving capacity and interest.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for key prospects, including personalized outreach and engagement strategies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community partners to identify and collaborate on fundraising opportunities.

Grant Writing and Management: 

• Research and identify grant opportunities that align with ReadyCT’s objectives. Write, submit, and manage grant proposals to secure funding from foundations, corporations, and government agencies.
• Track and report on grant performance and ensure compliance with grant requirements.

Alumni and Constituent Engagement:

• Lead and manage alumni engagement strategies, including development and implementation of a comprehensive plan to cultivate and steward relationships with alumni and other key constituents.
• Plan and execute a dynamic calendar of events and activities that foster meaningful connections between alumni and ReadyCT, including volunteer opportunities, mentorship programs, and networking events.

Planned Giving:

• Develop and implement a strategic plan for planned giving, including identifying and cultivating high-net-worth individuals for potential bequest, charitable trusts, and other planned gifts.
• Lead and manage relationships with planned giving prospects and donors, providing personalized stewardship and ensuring a high-touch, donor-centric approach.

Advocacy and Publications:

• Collaborate with the communications team to develop high-quality publications, presentations, and advocacy materials that effectively communicate ReadyCT's mission, impact, and fundraising priorities to key stakeholders.
• Ensure all communications materials, including website content, social media posts, and donor correspondence, are consistent with ReadyCT's brand identity, messaging, and values.

Event Participation:

• Represent ReadyCT at key fundraising events, conferences, and donor gatherings to cultivate and steward relationships with major gift donors and other key stakeholders

This job description is intended to be a comprehensive overview of the development and grant writing manager role. All ReadyCT team members are charged with other duties as may be required. 

Desired Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree, masters preferred, in nonprofit management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in development, grant writing, and fundraising, preferably within the education sector or a nonprofit organization.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for education and commitment to ReadyCT’s mission.
• Knowledge of the Connecticut education system and key stakeholders is a plus.
• Ability to travel locally and occasionally for multi-day trips.

What’s next:

The ReadyCT interview process consists of four steps, with candidates advancing through each stage: 

• Apply: Submit your application to be considered for the position. 
• SparkHire Invitation: Selected candidates will be invited to complete a video interview via SparkHire. 
• Performance Task Invitation: Successful candidates from the SparkHire interview will be invited to complete a performance task aligned to the position. 
• Onsite Interview Invitation: Finalists will be invited for an onsite interview.

Summary of Benefits:

Full time employees are eligible for the following benefits

• Healthcare, dental, and vision plans
• Robust paid holiday schedule
• Generous paid time off
• Retirement plans
• Short term disability 
• Long term disability 
• Group Life insurance 

In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, ReadyCT offers a competitive salary, opportunities for professional development and growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the education sector.

ReadyCT is an equal opportunity employer. 

Requirements: