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Proposal Development Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

PremiStar

Business Development Manager

Frankfort, IL · On-site

The Business Development Manager develops new customer relationships and drives revenue growth ... Prepare comprehensive proposals and quotes for both service contracts and capital projects ...

Sodexo

Proposal Manager

Chicago, IL · Remote

Manage end-to-end proposal development, from initial strategy to final submission. * Facilitate win theme workshops and integrate key differentiators into proposals. * Write and edit executive ...

Lindsay & Brownell

Proposal Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

We are seeking a Proposal Manager to support our various initiatives within our Marketing ... for proposal development * Translating and communicating technical material and concepts into ...

Eisneramper Llp

Proposal Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

We are seeking a Proposal Manager to support our various initiatives within our Marketing ... for proposal development * Translating and communicating technical material and concepts into ...

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Proposal Development Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$52K

$95.1K

$132.4K

How much do proposal development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for proposal development manager in Chicago, IL is $95,072.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $114,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Proposal Development Manager vs Proposal Coordinator?

AspectProposal Development ManagerProposal Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire proposal process, manages teams, develops strategiesSupports proposal preparation, coordinates document collection, assists with editing
Required SkillsProject management, leadership, proposal writingOrganizational skills, attention to detail, communication
ExperienceTypically 3+ years in proposal management or related fieldEntry to mid-level experience in proposal support roles
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, collaborative teams, client-facingOffice or remote, administrative support setting

The Proposal Development Manager focuses on leading and strategizing the entire proposal process, while the Proposal Coordinator provides essential support and coordination tasks. Both roles are vital in the proposal lifecycle but differ in scope and responsibility.

How does a proposal development manager typically collaborate with subject matter experts during the proposal process?

A Proposal Development Manager works closely with subject matter experts (SMEs) to gather technical content and ensure the proposal addresses all client requirements. This often involves organizing kickoff meetings, facilitating information flow, and coordinating review cycles to refine content. Effective communication and project management skills are essential to align contributions from various departments, maintain deadlines, and produce a cohesive, persuasive proposal. Building strong relationships with SMEs helps streamline content development and ensures proposals are both accurate and compelling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a proposal development manager?

To thrive as a Proposal Development Manager, you need strong project management, writing, and analytical skills, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in business, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with proposal automation tools (like RFPIO or Qvidian), content management systems, and compliance standards is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, collaboration, and time management skills help you effectively lead cross-functional teams and meet tight deadlines. These abilities are crucial for producing persuasive, compliant proposals that increase win rates and support organizational growth.

What is a proposal development manager?

A Proposal Development Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing and coordinating the creation of business proposals in response to requests for proposals (RFPs) or bids. They work closely with sales, technical, and subject matter experts to ensure that proposals meet client requirements and are delivered on time. Their role includes managing timelines, ensuring compliance with client specifications, and improving the quality and competitiveness of proposals to increase the chances of winning contracts.
What are the most commonly searched types of Proposal Development jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Proposal Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Proposal Development Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Proposal Development Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Proposal Development Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Proposal Development Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Proposal Development Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Proposal Development Manager job openings:
Proposal Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Proposal Development Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,072 per year, or $45.7 per hour.

Exec Dir Enterprise Proposal Development & Events

w3r Consulting

Chicago, IL • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Purpose:
This position is responsible for leading the team that partners closely with our Sales and Account Management teams and develops and writes proposals, manages proposal content across various areas and Network information requests for the Enterprise, including Commercial, RX and Group Medicare (Blue and HealthSpring) along with providing support to Dearborn National on Blue branded quotes for certain membership thresholds; managing a separate team that supports Enterprise National Accounts Meetings that host internal and external guests based on business objectives; managing a team that supports Open Enrollment requests to support Enterprise National Accounts, Oklahoma, and Illinois/Texas local/mid markets.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Provide Enterprise support to sales and account management teams by responding to bid documents and unsolicited proposals; developing creative, value-added solutions to customers while quantifying and mitigating risks to client by relying on initiative, experience and judgment to plan and accomplish business strategies and objectives.
  • Develop processes, tools and resources for proposal staff to ensure consistency across the enterprise on bidding strategy, strategic and technical approach, performance, SME engagement, proposal timelines and deliverables.
  • Lead cross enterprise operational initiatives by driving process optimization and leveraging technology to improve efficiency and outcomes across stakeholders
  • Manage Open Enrollment role in staffing over 1,000 meetings annually in support of new business acquisition and in retaining existing customers.
  • Offer expertise and oversight of managing Enterprise meeting and event needs, which include hosting some of our largest customers, brokers, consultants, and external guests, as applicable.
  • Take a leadership role with partners such as BCBSA, Consortium Health Plans and external consultant needs to drive consistency across Enterprise operations and within the System; identify best practices, and critically evaluates the quality of content provided by these entities and directs revisions and enhancements to stay ahead of market trends.

Required Job Qualifications:
  • Bachelor Degree and 15 years' experience in progressive marketing/benefits administration, proposal development, or insurance operations OR
  • Bachelor Degree and 15 years' experience in managing proposal development professionals in a deadline-driven environment, preferably with employees in multiple locations including but not limited to professional writing, marketing, business development, etc.
  • 7 years' experience in leadership, communications, and management skills.
  • Self-starter able to develop and maintain focus on strategic marketing objectives.
  • Process minded, ability to think about people, process, and technology to gain efficiencies in the Proposal Management process, leveraging data and insights. Organized and detail oriented.
  • Knowledge of proposal development methodologies/trends,
  • Experience in balancing short term deadlines against long-term goals for self and staff.
  • Interpersonal, negotiation and engaging communication skills for all levels within the organization including senior leadership.
  • Overseeing the annual budget and allocating resources for various projects and operational needs.
  • Translating needs and initiatives into compelling business cases.
  • Conducting cost-benefit analyses to justify investments and ensure ROI.

Preferred Job Qualifications:
  • Bachelor Degree in Business, Marketing Communications, or English.
  • Leader in the proposal industry with proven best practices, including the value of AI and content management strategies
  • Knowledgeable of health care industry trends to incorporate messaging in all communications, meetings and events to ensure consistency in messaging.
  • Knowledge of client's product offerings, competitors' capabilities, and the BCBS System.
  • Demonstrated ability to design knowledge management practices and disciplines for development of the team, as well as stakeholders who engage in the process of RFP development.
  • Experience in managing teams to support onsite events for clients as well as meeting and planning support, preferably with employees and events in multiple locations.
  • Creative problem-solver, strategic critical thinker with operational discipline, team player with leadership qualities.
  • Proactive mindset looking at industry best practices around analytics/automation, ways to balance standardization with unique responses for critical growth opportunities.
  • Achievements within deadline driven environment and pressure related to these activities/roles within the organization.

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