Washington, DC

Development Manager, The Urban Institute

The Organization
The nonprofit Urban Institute is dedicated to elevating the debate on social and economic policy. For nearly five decades, Urban scholars have conducted research and delivered evidence-based solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities across a rapidly urbanizing world. Our objective research helps expand opportunities for all, reduce hardship among the most vulnerable, and strengthen the effectiveness of the public sector

Position Overview
The Development Office of Urban Institute is seeking a highly-motivated professional to serve as a Development Manager. Reporting to the Director of Development, the Development Manager will be instrumental in securing donor and prospect support by helping non-experts understand the value of complex research and policy initiatives, strengthening internal and external communications and information capacities, and implementing effective moves management and project tracking systems. This critical position is an opportunity to contribute to the growth and future direction of one of the nation’s leading research and policy organizations. It requires highly sophisticated written and oral communication skills, advanced project management skills, interest in and familiarity with nonprofit management, and a track record of achieving results for policy and research organizations or other nonprofits.

Specific Responsibilities

  • Draft compelling and accessible newsletters, grant proposals, newsletters, stewardship messages and other documents that convey the impact of Urban’s research initiatives.
  • Prepare briefing memos to inform fundraising strategies and equip staff for success in meetings and events.
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of strategies to identify, cultivate, and steward foundation, corporate and individual donors.
  • Serve as the Development team’s primary liaison with the Communications Department.
  • Draft narrative reports on Urban’s accomplishments for various audiences.
  • Manage annual solicitation mailings to individual donors and trustees.
  • Develop and manage tracking system for top funders and prospects.
  • Help respond to requests from researchers seeking assistance in identifying and following up on fundraising opportunities.
  • Help design, implement and manage cultivation events and meetings.
  • Work with colleagues to collect and curate Urban success stories and accomplishments.

What You’ll Bring

  • Bachelor’s degree plus a minimum of 5 years prior experience in relevant positions. Full-time experience as a development professional is helpful but not required, as is a Master’s Degree in a relevant discipline.
  • Proven ability to write compelling documents that synthesize and succinctly communicate research findings to non-research audiences.
  • Exemplary oral and written communication skills and prior experience writing high-stakes documents and editing the work of others.
  • Commitment to professional ethics in working with highly confidential, sensitive information.
  • Ability to respond adeptly to rapidly changing priorities, and work well under pressure.
  • Ability to work and make decisions autonomously, solve problems independently, effectively, and creatively.
  • Proficiency with databases, on-line research tools and other information technology.
  • Demonstrated experience in planning and managing successful events a plus.

What You’ll Experience

Working in the Nation’s Capital- the epicenter of public policy- among a network of policy experts, you can expect to have an impact on policy areas you care about and work with great colleagues who are smart, mission-driven, and collaborative. You will blend academic rigor with on-the-ground collaboration, be encouraged and supported to fulfill your potential through meaningful work that matters and, enjoy a welcoming workplace free from harassment, discrimination and intolerance.

In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes: medical, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage. Competitive paid time off allowance, and eligibility to participate in a generous retirement savings plan plus elect a pretax benefit for commuting expenses.

The Urban Institute strives to be a vibrant, creative community of skilled and committed people who bring to their work a whole range of different experiences. Accordingly, the Urban Institute is committed to Equal Employment without regard for race, ethnicity, gender, protected veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other protected status under applicable law.

The Urban Institute is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer — Minorities/Women/Disabilities/Veterans.

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