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 improving government effectiveness and democracy. Its mission-driven work, focus on nonpartisan reforms, and national impact make it a compelling place for those passionate about public service. The organization's commitment to bold reforms and leadership development distinguishes it in the nonprofit sector.

About This Role

This role focuses on securing major gifts from foundations and high-net-worth individuals primarily in California to advance the Partnership's mission. The Senior Manager will manage a portfolio of prospects, craft grant proposals, and collaborate with senior leaders. This position is critical for sustaining and expanding the Partnership's impact in California and beyond through strategic fundraising.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with reviewing donor portfolios and updating Salesforce with recent interactions. You may draft a concept paper for a foundation proposal, then hop on a virtual meeting with a California-based donor to discuss their philanthropic interests. Later, you could collaborate with program staff to gather impact data for a grant report, and end the day by strategizing with the development team on upcoming cultivation events.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Partnership for Public Service Is Looking For

  • Proven track record of securing major gifts of $100,000+ from foundations and high-net-worth individuals, with at least 7 years of progressive fundraising experience.
  • Strong proposal development and grant writing skills, with ability to translate programmatic needs into compelling funding requests.
  • Experience with donor CRM systems, especially Salesforce, and adept at maintaining accurate donor records and reporting.
  • Self-starter comfortable working remotely, with excellent relationship management skills and ability to engage senior executives and board members in fundraising.

📝 Tips for Applying to Partnership for Public Service

1

Tailor your resume to highlight major gift successes ($100k+) with specific dollar amounts and donor types (foundations, HNWIs).

2

In your cover letter, explicitly mention your experience with foundation and individual fundraising in California, and any connections to the region.

3

Demonstrate knowledge of the Partnership's focus areas (e.g., government reform, leadership development) and how your fundraising aligns with their mission.

4

If you have Salesforce experience, highlight it prominently; if not, mention your CRM proficiency and willingness to learn.

5

Prepare a brief example of a successful grant proposal or cultivation strategy you led, including outcomes.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Emphasize your passion for nonpartisan public service and understanding of the Partnership's mission to improve government.", 'Highlight your specific experience with California-based donors and foundations, and your ability to build relationships in that region.', 'Showcase your track record in securing six-figure gifts and managing a portfolio of major donors.', 'Mention your collaborative approach and experience working with senior leaders and board members to close gifts.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review the Partnership's recent annual reports and impact metrics to understand their funding priorities and success stories.
  • → Study their California-focused initiatives, such as the 'Better Government in California' work, to tailor your pitch.
  • → Look into their leadership team and board members, especially any with California ties, to identify potential connections.
  • → Familiarize yourself with their donor recognition programs and stewardship practices to align with their culture.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you cultivated a high-net-worth individual or foundation from initial contact to a major gift of $100k+.
2 How do you prioritize and manage a portfolio of prospects, especially when working remotely?
3 What strategies do you use to engage board members and senior executives in fundraising without overwhelming them?
4 How do you stay informed about the Partnership's programs to effectively communicate impact to donors?
5 Given the nonpartisan nature, how would you handle a prospect whose political views differ from the organization's stance?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid generic fundraising language; be specific about your experience with foundations and HNWIs, especially in California.
  • Do not overlook the remote aspect; demonstrate your ability to work independently and manage relationships virtually.
  • Refrain from focusing solely on individual donors; the role requires balancing foundation, individual, and corporate relationships.

📅 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!

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