Foundation Relations Manager, Midwest at The Conservation Fund – Chicago, Illinois

TITLE: Foundation Relations Manager, Midwest

LINE OF BUSINESS/DIVISION: Strategic Giving

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

REPORTS TO: Regional Director of Fundraising, Midwest

NUMBER OF POSITIONS REPORTING TO THIS POSITION: None

LOCATION: Midwest – Chicago, Minneapolis, or a major metropolitan area preferred.

THE CONSERVATION FUND

The Conservation Fund protects the land that sustains us all. We are in the business of conservation, creating innovative solutions that drive nature-based action in all 50 states for climate protection, vibrant communities and sustainable economies. We apply effective strategies, efficient financing approaches, and enduring government, community and private partnerships to protect millions of acres of America’s natural land, cultural sites, recreation areas and working forests and farms. To learn more, visit www.conservationfund.org.

JOB HIGHLIGHTS

The Conservation Fund (TCF) seeks a highly organized and motivated Foundation Relations Manager to support our fundraising and donor engagement efforts in the Midwest. This position assists with grant writing and reporting, donor cultivation and stewardship, and internal coordination of fundraising activities and initiatives. Reporting to the Regional Director of Fundraising, Midwest, the Manager is part of a small fundraising team that works closely with Midwest field staff to engage both institutional and individual donors in projects and programs that advance TCF’s mission of land conservation and sustainable economic development. The Manager is a member of TCF’s national Strategic Giving team, which is made up of professional frontline fundraisers as well as an operations group providing data entry and research support.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

To perform this job successfully, you must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Support cultivation and stewardship of a select portfolio of up to 100 family foundation and institutional foundation donors who are based in and focused on the Midwest, including drafting communications and personalized outreach, and assisting with meeting prep and follow-up activities.
• Draft grant proposals and reports, track deadlines and reporting requirements and maintain TCF accounts in funder grant portals.
• Assist with coordination of Midwest fundraising efforts including maintaining prospect and outreach lists, preparing agendas, taking notes for fundraising meetings and updating action items, and coordinating with Regional Director and field staff on follow up.
• Coordinate logistics for in-person events and provide on-site support and donor engagement as necessary.
• Draft materials and work with program and communications staff to share opportunities and impact stories.
• Represent the organization professionally to Midwest donors and supporters.

WHAT WE NEED YOU TO HAVE

• Experience: 3-5+ years of nonprofit experience involving fundraising, client management, community engagement, or customer service.
• Computer Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Proficiency in CRM systems.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and part of a team.

WHAT WE’D LIKE YOU TO HAVE

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• Enthusiasm and passion for The Conservation Fund’s mission and a donor-centered mindset.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Some lifting and carrying will be necessary – up to 20 pounds.
• Work is performed in both an office setting and in outdoor settings in all weather conditions.
• When visiting conservation sites, the ability to traverse all terrain in outdoor/all weather conditions will be necessary.
• Willingness to travel as necessary to carry out duties, often with short notice and in inclement weather over long distances.
• Estimated travel – 5% per month, with additional day travel required.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

The salary range for this position is $70,000-$80,000, and the position is eligible for opportunities to earn performance-based bonus compensation. Please note: Salary range provided is an estimate and will be evaluated on an individual basis, taking into consideration the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, experience, and education. The final salary offer will be determined accordingly.