Description

Friends of Breakthrough Schools (FOB) is a non-profit organization that focuses on fundraising, alumni support, and advocacy, created on behalf of Breakthrough Public Schools scholars, schools, and the community. FOB is responsible for closing the gap in public funding needed to provide quality education to thousands of children in Cleveland each year, as well as working with community, business, and political leaders to build city-wide support for high-quality public school options for all children in Cleveland. In addition, FOB continues to support BPS alumni’s pursuit of success in life by leveraging its community network and resources, with the ultimate goal of a robust, equitable, diverse, and sustainable Northeast Ohio economy.

About the Opportunity

The Director of Grants and Foundation Relations leads the community and corporate foundation fundraising efforts and new government grant seeking for Friends of Breakthrough in support of achieving the annual and long term financial goals of the organization. The individual will work with Breakthrough Schools to capitalize on emerging opportunities for foundation funding, help create strategic thinking for institutional foundation management, overall foundation activity, and make the case for support. The individual will manage grant proposal preparation, integrate support efforts from various constituencies including the research, educational, and business practices areas of the schools and management organization. Additionally, the individual will act as a point person for foundation relationships with Friends of Breakthrough utilizing leadership support when needed. The Director, Grants and Foundations Relations will report to the Chief Development Officer.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive foundation fundraising strategy aligned to Friends of Breakthrough priorities that includes tracking key benchmarks and metrics that can be reported to leaders and board members
• Participate in strategic planning for FOB activities, and contribute to the development and  evaluation of metrics to support goals, and participate in Friends of Breakthrough team efforts including solicitation strategy for key prospects and internal planning efforts.  
• Manage a portfolio of foundation prospects and partners, from identification through stewardship
• Build and maintain relationships with local, regional and national funders, aligning prospects with grant opportunities that support Breakthrough Public Schools’ mission.
• Collaborate with FOB, Breakthrough Public Schools teachers and leaders, and CMO leadership when needed on all grant activities and communications.
• Use data and insights to refine strategy and increase foundation revenue year over year
• Manage grant operations, including calendars, reporting, recordkeeping, and donor communications to ensure compliance and continued support
• Establish clear priorities, and processes in partnership with CMO and school leadership to ensure a consistent, strategic approach to grant seeking and implementation
• Work alongside the Grants Associate to identify and pursue new funding opportunities through research and prospecting

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree is a plus
• 3-5 years of foundation relations or comparable work with foundations and other granting entities, preferably in support of education.  
• Exceptional writing and story telling skills, with the ability to translate impact into compelling proposals
• Proven track records of securing and managing large foundation grants
• Strong networking and communication skills, with the ability to build effective partnerships with key groups and individuals
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities
• Takes initiative, works independently, and is also a dedicated member to the team.
• Demonstrates the ability to speak and write persuasively while having a deep understanding and appreciation of the mission of Breakthrough Public Schools is critical.  
• Use asset-based, culturally responsive language to accurately communicate the experiences and strengths of all Breakthrough Public Schools stakeholders
• Familiarity with 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) regulations is required.  
• Knowledge of Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT, Google Suite and Microsoft Office is required
• Other duties may be assigned.