Director Proposal Development Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

The National Institutional Giving Officer will play a key role in advancing MPR|APM’s national philanthropic strategy by translating high-level funding priorities into actionable plans, compelling proposals, and funder engagement opportunities.

Working closely with the Director of Institutional Giving and senior leadership, this individual will help bring bold funding ideas to life—supporting the development of enterprise-level initiatives while driving day-to-day execution. Leadership will help define funding priorities (“what”) and identify key national funders (“who”); this role is responsible for designing and driving the “how”—developing the strategies, pathways, and relationships that move opportunities forward.

This role is ideal for an entrepreneurial, curious, and highly motivated professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, brings creative thinking to the table, and can move ideas from concept to reality.

Expected Compensation Range: $75K-$85K Salary. The exact salary rate is determined by experience and education related to the role, organizational compensation structure, and internal equity.

Location: Remote
Application Process: Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
Application Deadline: Open until filled.

Position Responsibilities

1. Strategy Translation & Opportunity Development (30%)

• Partner with the Director of Institutional Giving to translate organizational priorities into fundable opportunities
• Support the development and refinement of concepts for national funding, including initiatives related to Marketplace, journalism access, and community impact
• Conduct research and landscape analysis to identify aligned national funders and emerging opportunities
• Contribute ideas, connections, and insights to strategy discussions, demonstrating initiative and curiosity
• Help shape early-stage concepts into clear, actionable funding approaches

1. Strategic Execution & Funder Engagement (35%)

• Design and implement proactive engagement strategies to reach priority national funders, moving beyond traditional grant submission approaches
• Identify where target funders are convening (e.g., conferences, networks, collaboratives, advisory groups) and develop strategies to position MPR|APM within those spaces
• Creatively secure opportunities for connection, including warm introductions, partnerships, and thought leadership positioning
• Leverage internal and external networks—including board members, senior leadership, and existing partners—to open doors and build relationships
• Develop tailored engagement strategies for each priority funder, aligned with their interests and decision-making processes
• Maintain persistence and momentum in outreach, ensuring consistent follow-up and progression of relationships
• Build and manage a portfolio of national institutional prospects and funders, tracking engagement and next steps

1. Proposal Development & Execution (25%)

• Lead the development of grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and concept papers
• Translate complex organizational priorities into clear, compelling narratives tailored to national funders
• Coordinate across internal teams, including content, finance, and leadership, to gather inputs and ensure alignment
• Manage timelines and ensure proposals and deliverables are completed on schedule
• Support post-award reporting and stewardship communications

1. Internal Coordination & Momentum Management (10%)

• Act as a connector across internal teams to move funding opportunities forward
• Ensure alignment between strategy, programmatic priorities, and funder expectations
• Maintain visibility into timelines, deliverables, and next steps across active projects
• Support internal communication to ensure clarity and coordination across stakeholders

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Communications, Journalism, or similar)
• 3–6 years of experience in fundraising, philanthropy, partnerships, or a related field
• Experience writing grant proposals or similar strategic communications
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and move initiatives forward
• Exposure to institutional funders (foundation, corporate, or government) preferred

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear and persuasive narratives
• Ability to listen to and synthesize input from senior leaders and translate it into actionable plans
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with attention to detail and deadlines
• Entrepreneurial mindset, with a proactive and solution-oriented approach
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams and build effective working relationships
• Curiosity and initiative in identifying new opportunities and approaches
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment

Key Characteristics of Success

• Demonstrates strong ownership of execution, with a focus on moving ideas forward
• Thinks creatively about how to access and engage funders, not relying solely on traditional channels
• Persistent and resourceful in building relationships and creating opportunities
• Comfortable navigating ambiguity and developing pathways where none currently exist
• Builds trust with colleagues and external partners
• Maintains focus on both strategic priorities and executional details

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation
• Ability to work in an office environment and sit for extended periods
• Occasional travel for meetings or events may be required
• Moderate noise level typical of an office setting

APMG offers a comprehensive benefits package including Medical plans with HSA and FSA options, Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, Paid Parental Leave and Paid Caregiver Leave after 1 year, Vacation (3 wks./per year, pro-rated, based on hours worked), Sick time (12 days, pro-rated, based on hours worked), Holiday Pay (10 holidays + 2 floating holidays each year), Volunteer Time (8 hours per year), Long-Term Care and Critical Illness insurance options, Employee Assistance Program, 403(b) Retirement Plan, and more.

Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We are committed to hiring a breadth of diverse professionals and encourage members of diverse groups to apply.