Manager, Strategic Proposals

Job Description:

Position Overview 

RMI seeks a strategic proposal writer with experience in energy and/or climate to lead the development of high-quality, competitive proposals across both fee-for-service and philanthropic funding streams. This person plays a critical role in translating RMI’s technical expertise into compelling, client- and donor-ready proposals that secure revenue and advance organizational priorities. 

The individual will develop proposals, concept notes, responses to RFPs, grant applications, and client- and donor-facing pitch materials, such as PowerPoint decks, for corporate and private-sector clients and philanthropic funders. The role requires the ability to tailor messaging, structure, and value propositions for different audiences. 

As a member of the Development Communications and Engagement team, the individual will report to the Director of Marketing for Donor Relations, with a secondary reporting line to the Senior Director, Strategic Engagement and Development. They will partner closely with program leadership and the broader Development and Strategic Engagement team. 

Roles and Responsibilities 

Lead the development of fee-for-service proposals (50%) 

• Focus on competitive, client-facing opportunities requiring clear differentiation and commercial positioning 

• Lead the development of fee-for-service proposals, including RFP/RFQ responses and client-facing pitch materials  

• Develop high-impact pitch decks that communicate RMI’s value proposition through a clear narrative and visual flow 

• Shape and refine technical content into clear, compelling value propositions tailored to client priorities 

• Structure proposals, including technical approach, workplans, timelines, and team composition 

• Collaborate with program and technical teams to draft scopes of work and ensure clarity of delivery approaches  

• Partner with finance and program teams to align narrative with budgets and level of effort  

Philanthropic proposal development (30%) 

• Focus on donor- and impact-driven opportunities requiring strong narrative development and alignment with funder priorities 

• Write and edit proposals, concept notes, and donor-facing materials such as pitch decks 

• Develop compelling impact narratives that clearly articulate a theory of change, outcomes, and impact 

• Partner with development and program teams to align proposals with funder strategies, relationships, and long-term engagement goals 

• Develop donor reports and stewardship materials, as needed  

Proposal operations and systems (20%) 

• Build and maintain a library of reusable proposal assets, including case studies, boilerplate content, and templates 

• Manage multiple concurrent proposals, ensuring timely, high-quality submissions under tight deadlines 

• Coordinate across program, finance, legal, and leadership teams during proposal development 

• Ensure consistency in messaging and positioning across proposal types  

• Support prioritization of proposal opportunities, focusing effort on the highest-impact work 

• Provide guidance, structure, and quality control across proposal efforts, working with contributors across programs without direct supervisory responsibility 

Minimum Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree required 

• 5-7+ years of experience in proposal development, consulting, business development, or related fields 

• Experience developing fee-for-service and/or philanthropic proposals and other client- and donor-facing materials such as pitch decks, concept notes, and capability statements 

• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with the ability to synthesize complex technical content 

• Background in energy, climate, sustainability, or related fields preferred 

• Demonstrated ability to lead complex, cross-functional workstreams and influence stakeholders without direct authority 

Additional Qualifications 

• Experience responding to corporate RFPs and competitive procurement processes 

• Ability to adapt writing for different audiences (commercial vs. donor)  

• Strong project management skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines and stakeholders 

• Collaborative mindset and ability to work across diverse, global teams 

Compensation  

The salary range for this role is $ 109,200 - 134600. Salary is dependent on experience and will be discussed and vetted throughout the interview process. This role has an additional 10% bonus target. 

Benefits:    

We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:    

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance    

• 403b Retirement Options (5% match immediately)    

• Generous PTO    

• Learning & Development opportunities    

• Parental leave    

• Life, AD&D, Short Term and Long-Term Disability    

• Commuter and Wellness Benefits     

Diversity         

Increasing the diversity of thought, perspectives, ideas, and opinions within RMI is a critical change element supporting our long-term sustainability and mission to build a clean, prosperous, and secure energy future.       

We strive for a level of diversity that reflects the communities we serve. Achieving this—regardless of ability, race, ethnicity, ancestry, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, veteran status, socioeconomic class, educational attainment or other social identities—is critical to the success of each RMIer and collectively as an organization. This ensures that we:       

• Have the different array of thinking that comes from diverse backgrounds and cultures, enabling us to solve some of the world’s greatest challenges.       

• Strive for a culture of inclusion and belonging by treating others with dignity, respect and appreciation enabling them to feel welcomed, supported and valued.       

• Effectively connect, communicate and build long-lasting relationships with decision makers, stakeholders and constituents within diverse communities.        

RMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.        

About RMI   

Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) is an independent, nonpartisan nonprofit founded in 1982 that transforms global energy systems through market-driven solutions to secure a prosperous, resilient, clean energy future for all. In collaboration with businesses, policymakers, funders, communities, and other partners, RMI drives investment to scale clean energy solutions, reduce energy waste, and boost access to affordable clean energy in ways that enhance security, strengthen the economy, and improve people’s livelihoods. RMI is active in over 50 countries.  

RMI is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.