Divisional grants and corporate relations manager

Job Objective:

Secure institutional funding to support life-changing programs that meet human needs in Jesus' name without discrimination. Combines strategic grant writing with proactive corporate relationship building and sponsorship cultivation to generate sustainable revenue for essential services, including emergency shelter, food assistance, housing support, youth development, holiday programs, and spiritual care across Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. Collaborates closely with program staff, leadership, and officers to align fundraising efforts with the organization's mission.

Essential Functions:

This job description should not be interpreted as all inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions and requirements of the position. Other job-related responsibilities and tasks may be assigned. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

Grant Writing & Management (40% of time)

• Research, identify, and prioritize funding opportunities from foundations, corporations, government agencies, and other institutional sources that align with The Salvation Army's programs in Milwaukee County.
• Write compelling Letters of Inquiry (LOIs), full grant proposals, budgets, and supporting materials that highlight program outcomes and community impact in Milwaukee County.
• Manage the full grant lifecycle, including preparation, submission, tracking, compliance, and timely reporting.
• Partner with program teams to collect statistics, success stories, client outcomes, and financial data for proposals and stewardship reports.
• Maintain an accurate grants calendar, prospect pipeline, and records in the donor database.
• Assist and consult with Officers and development staff throughout the division with grant opportunities and submissions.
• Ensure all submissions reflect The Salvation Army's values of compassion, integrity, and care.

Corporate Relations & Fundraising (50% of time)

• Build and manage a portfolio of corporate donors and prospects in the Greater Milwaukee area.
• Assist Officers and development staff with corporate partnerships throughout the division.
• Develop and pitch corporate sponsorship opportunities, cause-related marketing partnerships, employee volunteer and giving programs, matching gift campaigns, and in-kind donation requests.
• Cultivate long-term relationships with corporate leaders through meetings, site visits to Milwaukee County Salvation Army programs (e.g., shelters, food pantries, or holiday distributions), events, and personalized stewardship.
• Negotiate sponsorship agreements and partnership terms that create mutual value while advancing The Salvation Army's mission.
• Identify opportunities to engage local businesses in supporting key initiatives such as the Red Kettle Campaign, toy and coat distributions, and emergency assistance.

Strategy, Collaboration & Administration (10% of time)

• Track revenue, pipeline activity, and progress toward targets; prepare regular reports for leadership.
• Work with the communications team to develop impact reports, case statements, and materials that demonstrate how funds transform lives in Milwaukee County.
• Stay informed on local funding trends, corporate social responsibility (CSR) priorities in Wisconsin, and best practices in faith-based nonprofit fundraising.
• Participate in donor cultivation events, community outreach, and occasional evening or weekend activities (including Red Kettle or holiday events) as needed.
• Accurately record all donor interactions and gifts in the CRM system.

Minimum Qualifications:

The requirements listed below are representative of the minimal education, experience, skills, and/or abilities required for this position.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, business, public administration, or a related field.

Experience:

5+ years of professional experience in grant writing and institutional/corporate fundraising within a nonprofit environment (experience in faith-based or human services organizations is a plus). OR - Any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Certifications:

CFRE (Certified Fund-Raising Executive) or equivalent professional credential preferred. Valid Wisconsin Driver’s License with clearance to drive from TSA insurance.

Who we are:

Our Mission: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Our message is based on the Bible. Our ministry is motivated by the love of God. Our mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human need in His name without discrimination.

Why work for us?

The Salvation Army’s brand promises to Do the Most Good® - and it’s our employees that help us get there. At every level, you can have a real impact on your community through the work done inside our walls every day. We are as impassioned about our employees as we are about our mission to help anyone in need without discrimination. Our culture reflects this quality, which makes our offices a seriously great place to work. Just walk inside our doors and you’ll quickly see that our employees are proud to support programs that make a difference.

The Salvation Army recognizes that peace of mind is important to employees and their families. Because of this, we offer: Competitive Salary Flexible schedules and a casual dress environment Generous paid time off benefits (vacation, sick time, personal time, and 11 paid holidays) Tuition reimbursement Employee Assistance Program, providing 24/7 support, resources, and referrals to help you in your work and personal life Insurance benefits: excellent health, dental, vision, life, disability Discounts available for pet insurance, auto insurance, and home insurance Full-time employees scheduled to work 30 or more hours per week will be eligible for full benefits, including health, dental, vision and hearing benefits, basic and voluntary life benefits, holiday pay and paid time off, which is pro-rated based on their regularly scheduled work week. Exempt Employees: Health, dental, vision, and hearing benefits, as well as basic and voluntary life benefits, will begin on the first day of the month following 30 days of employment.

Other Benefits and Perks Offered:

Work-life balance, Full health coverage, Time off benefits, Retirement Competitive compensation Compensation: At The Salvation Army - We honor the unique perspectives and contributions of every individual. We are dedicated to fair pay practices, ensuring equal compensation for equal work, regardless of gender, race, or other factors. Be part of something meaningful. Whether you're supporting those in need, assisting with disaster relief, or working in areas like finance or fundraising, each role offers a chance to make a lasting impact. If you're looking to align your career with your values, explore opportunities at The Salvation Army and help us create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Compensation: $75,000-$90,000, based on experience.