Corporate and Foundation Relations Manager

Accomplished inventor Dean Kamen founded FIRST^® (United States Foundation For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) in 1989 to inspire an appreciation of science and technology in young people. Based in Manchester, N.H., FIRST designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology, and engineering. With support from three out of every five Fortune 500 companies and nearly $16 million in college scholarships, the not-for-profit organization hosts the FIRST^® Robotics Competition (FRC^® ) for students in Grades 9-12; FIRST^® Tech Challenge (FTC^® ) for Grades 7-12; FIRST^® LEGO^® League (FLL^® ) for Grades 4-8; and Junior FIRST^® LEGO^® League (Jr.FLL^®) for Grades K-3. Gracious Professionalism^® is a way of doing things that encourages high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects individuals and the community.

Summary of Qualifications/Skills:

Serve as the primary interface responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, stewardship, coordination, and advancement of strategic donors/sponsors of FIRST.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: Including but not limited to:

Relationship Development:

• Develop and cultivate strategic relationships at multiple locations within donor organizations (typically large corporations, foundations or government entities).
• Be knowledgeable of the mission, programs, and long-range plans of FIRST and stay current with the functioning of the entire organization.
• Identify and communicate to Head of Development, Regional Development Officers, Regional Directors, Regional Executive Advisory Board and other FIRST staff opportunities to increase overall relationship with donor
• Work with staff and Board to create solicitation strategies for top tier donors of FIRST

Relationship Maintenance:

• Maintain and grow existing key account relationships by providing the strategic vision, leadership, and direction for specified accounts by setting support level goals, developing short and long-term strategies and implementing action plans to meet the growth objectives of FIRST.
• Establish a plan for each account and include key account team members in development.
• Develop a mutually deeper knowledge of each account and implement the tactical and strategic initiatives to further penetrate and grow each account.

Reporting:

• Maintain and oversee the credibility of accurate and accessible database records and donor files for strategic accounts and strategic prospects in CRM.
• Conduct ongoing evaluation of each account and provide periodic reports.
• Perform other duties assigned.

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS:

• An effective strategic relationships manager with a proven track record capable of earning the respect and attention of senior staff, Board of Directors and principal gift donors
• Comprehensive knowledge of development and corporate relations and a demonstrated ability to solicit and grow major gifts
• An open and collaborative management style, conducive to effective team-building, fostering team spirit, and motivating staff and volunteers
• Successful experience in managing budgets and fundraising project schedules
• Demonstrated ability to manage, cultivate and grow accounts.
• Frequent travel required

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) in a related field and 5+ years of account management, corporate relations/fundraising experience or other transferable experience