Grants Manager

Chicago Sinfonietta, the nation's most diverse orchestra, has an exciting opportunity

for a Grants Manager.

Since its founding in 1987 by the late Maestro Paul Freeman, one of the leading conductors of his time, Chicago Sinfonietta has been a pioneering force in classical music, dedicated to modeling and promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging through the universal language of symphonic music.

As an acclaimed cultural leader, the orchestra has grown from representing the city of Chicago to holding an international position at the forefront of progressive change in the arts.

Why Join Us? Working at Chicago Sinfonietta offers a unique opportunity to be part of one of the most dynamic and forward-looking orchestras in the nation.

With a strong legacy of pushing boundaries and redefining the orchestra experience, Chicago Sinfonietta provides an environment of support, innovation, and leadership in the arts.

Join us as we continue to inspire investment in diversity and inclusivity in classical music.

Position Title : Grants Manager

Status : Full-Time, Exempt

Reports to : Development Director (CFG)

Supervises : N / A

Job Summary

The Grants Manager plays a pivotal role in the Development Department, contributing to the creation, execution, and sustainability of a strategic development plan that supports Chicago Sinfonietta's philanthropic objectives.

This position involves managing the department's CRM database (Spektrix) and leading the tracking of development campaigns and initiatives.

The Grants Manager will work closely with the Director of Development to research, apply for, and secure funding from government agencies, private foundations, and corporate funders.

Additionally, this role involves maintaining the schedule on the Development Department's Master Calendar and collaborating with the Development Team and Senior Staff to identify organizational needs and create opportunities for new funding streams.

Key Responsibilities

Grant Prospecting and Research

• Research and identify new funding opportunities for general operations and specific programs.
• Collaborate with the Program & Development Team to strategize approaches for prospective funders.
• Maintain up-to-date records, data, and research on potential funders, focusing on their grant-making priorities.

Grant Writing and Submission

• Write and submit grant applications, ensuring alignment with funder guidelines and priorities.
• Prioritize and manage application and reporting deadlines, maintaining an accurate schedule in Spektrix and on the Development Department's Master Calendar.
• Develop compelling narratives that highlight Chicago Sinfonietta's history, accomplishments, and mission.

Project and Grants Management

• Oversee the management of grant projects from proposal through reporting, ensuring compliance with funder requirements.
• Manage the grants portal, ensuring all submissions are timely, accurate, and meet technical and formatting guidelines.
• Coordinate data collection and analysis to support prospecting efforts and strengthen grant proposals.

Proposal Development and Review

• Review and refine grant proposals, ensuring clear, concise, and compelling language that aligns with funder requirements.
• Include supporting materials, such as program narratives, metrics, and financial documentation, to enhance the proposal's impact.
• Maintain consistency with past proposals and ensure alignment with the grantmaking organization's mission and funding priorities.

Team Collaboration and Feedback

• Work closely with the Development Director and other team members to identify funding needs and opportunities within the organization.
• Seek feedback from colleagues and other stakeholders to refine and strengthen grant proposals.
• Participate in team meetings and provide insights to improve grant management processes.

Qualifications

• We strongly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, especially those from underrepresented communities in the arts.
• Exceptional writing and oral communication skills.
• Proven track record in securing new revenue streams through successful grant proposals.
• High energy, self-motivated, and goal-oriented with a strong ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong project management skills, with experience in managing grants portals and data collection processes.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Office, and the ability to learn development databases; experience with CRM systems like Spektrix is a plus.
• Familiarity with arts organizations or non-profits is highly desirable.

This position is ideal for a detail-oriented professional with a passion for philanthropy and a talent for crafting compelling narratives that resonate with funders.

The successful candidate will be a key player in advancing Chicago Sinfonietta's mission by securing the resources needed to sustain and grow its impactful programs.

Apply Today!

Interested candidates should submit their resume, cover letter, and relevant writing samples by September 23, 2024, to the job posting on the employer website.

If you are a driven and detail-oriented professional with a passion for philanthropy and a talent for crafting compelling grant proposals, we encourage you to join our team.

Apply today to help Chicago Sinfonietta continue its groundbreaking work in redefining the orchestra experience through diversity and innovation.

Sinfonietta is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Sinfonietta participates in E-Verify for states that require it.