How to apply for Senior Manager, Development - California

About Partnership for Public Service

The Partnership for Public Service is a nonpartisan nonprofit that works to strengthen the US federal government through talent development and management reform. It brings together government leaders, policymakers, and civic leaders to improve how government serves the public. Staff work on consequential issues with influential leaders and partners who are committed to improving government and public service.

About the role

This is a senior development role focused on California, likely involving fundraising, donor relationships, and revenue strategy for the state. The position is remote within the US and sits within a nonprofit that values mission-driven, collaborative, and intellectually curious people. The role supports the Partnership's work to build a better government and a stronger democracy.

A typical day

A typical day might include meeting with California donors or partners, working with the national development team, and planning strategy for regional fundraising. You would also spend time researching prospects, preparing proposals, and coordinating with program staff. The role is remote, so much of the work happens over video calls and email.

Who Partnership for Public Service is looking for

• Has senior-level development or fundraising experience, ideally in a nonprofit, civic, or public-sector context.
• Can build and manage donor relationships and revenue strategies for a specific region like California.
• Is mission-driven and comfortable working with government leaders, policymakers, and civic leaders.
• Is collaborative, optimistic, and inclusive, and brings both ambition and humility to the work.

Tips for this application

• Read the full job description on the Partnership for Public Service careers page to confirm the exact responsibilities and required experience for the California development role.
• Connect your past fundraising or business development results to the Partnership's mission of strengthening the federal government.
• Show that you understand California's philanthropic, civic, or public-sector landscape and can build relationships there.
• Use the cover letter to explain why you want to work at a nonpartisan nonprofit that focuses on government effectiveness, not just any nonprofit.
• Check the Partnership's recent reports, events, and programs so you can reference specific work in your application.

What to cover in your cover letter

['Your track record in senior development or fundraising, with numbers or specific outcomes if possible.', 'Your knowledge of California donors, foundations, or civic networks and how you would grow support there.', "Why the Partnership for Public Service's mission to improve government matters to you and how you would contribute.", 'How you work with leaders and stakeholders across sectors, since the role involves engaging influential leaders and partners.']

Research before applying

• Read the Partnership for Public Service's mission, core values, and recent annual reports to understand their work and impact.
• Look up their programs and publications related to federal government effectiveness and talent development.
• Research California's philanthropic and civic landscape, including major foundations and donors in the state.
• Find recent news or press releases about the Partnership to see what they are currently focused on.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• How would you build a development strategy for California that aligns with the Partnership's national mission?
• Describe a time you secured a major gift or partnership and how you managed the relationship.
• How do you work with government leaders, policymakers, or civic leaders in a nonpartisan way?
• What do you know about the Partnership's work on federal talent development and management reform?
• How would you measure success in this role in the first year?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Writing a generic cover letter that does not mention the Partnership, California, or development work.
• Failing to show any knowledge of the Partnership's nonpartisan mission or its work on government reform.
• Focusing only on fundraising mechanics without connecting it to the organization's mission and values.