Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Manager, Development - California

at Partnership for Public Service

🏢 About Partnership for Public Service

The Partnership for Public Service is a nonpartisan, nonprofit dedicated to building a better government and a stronger democracy. With over 20 years of experience, they bring together leaders to tackle critical challenges, offering a mission-driven environment where your work directly impacts public service. Their culture values ambition, humility, and collaboration, making it an ideal place for those passionate about government effectiveness.

About This Role

As the Senior Manager of Development for California, you will lead fundraising efforts in the state, cultivating relationships with donors and partners to support the Partnership's mission. This role is pivotal in expanding the organization's reach and impact, ensuring resources are available to drive change in government. Your work will directly contribute to a more effective and accountable public sector.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start with virtual meetings with California-based donors or partners, discussing their philanthropic interests and the Partnership's impact. You'll spend time researching potential funding sources, preparing proposals, and coordinating with the national development team. Afternoons could involve virtual networking events or webinars, followed by strategic planning and reporting on fundraising progress.

🎯 Who Partnership for Public Service Is Looking For

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📝 Tips for Applying to Partnership for Public Service

1

Highlight specific examples of successful fundraising campaigns, especially those involving California-based donors or organizations.

2

Demonstrate your knowledge of the Partnership's recent initiatives, such as their work on federal leadership or technology modernization, and how your fundraising can support these.

3

Tailor your resume to emphasize experience with remote work and self-motivation, as this role is remote-based.

4

In your cover letter, mention any connections you have to the Partnership's network or alumni, and how you can leverage those for fundraising.

5

Use your application to show alignment with the organization's core values: passion for public service, commitment to the mission, and collaborative spirit.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

- Express genuine passion for the Partnership's mission and its impact on government effectiveness. - Detail your fundraising experience, specifically in California, and how you've successfully engaged donors. - Showcase your ability to work independently and manage a development portfolio remotely. - Highlight any innovative fundraising strategies you've used and how they can be applied to the Partnership's goals.

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Research the Partnership's key initiatives, such as their Center for Presidential Transition or their work on federal workforce issues.
  • Look into their recent annual reports to understand funding priorities and donor demographics.
  • Familiarize yourself with the California philanthropic community, including major foundations and corporate giving trends.
  • Review the Partnership's social media and press releases to stay updated on their recent achievements and events.
Visit Partnership for Public Service's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach building a donor pipeline in California from scratch?
2 Describe a time you had to adapt your fundraising strategy to a changing environment or crisis.
3 What do you know about the Partnership's current projects and how would you align fundraising with them?
4 How do you stay motivated and productive when working remotely?
5 Can you share an example of a difficult donor relationship you managed and how you resolved it?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic cover letter; it must be tailored to the Partnership and this specific role.
  • Avoid focusing solely on your own achievements without connecting them to the organization's mission.
  • Don't underestimate the importance of remote work skills; be sure to highlight your ability to manage time and communicate effectively in a virtual environment.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Partnership for Public Service!