Development Manager

Development Manager

Data & Society is an independent nonprofit research organization studying the social implications of data-centric technologies and automation. We recognize that the same innovative technologies that may benefit society can also be abused to invade privacy, provide new tools of discrimination, foreclose opportunity, and harm individuals and communities. Through original research and inclusive engagement, we work to ensure that empirical evidence and respect for human dignity guide how technology is developed and governed.

Data & Society is seeking a strategic and mission-aligned Development Manager Content and Donor Engagement to join our growing development team. Grant writing is a central and essential function of this role, alongside responsibilities in donor communications and engagement and content strategy. This includes writing engaging updates and newsletters aimed at our supporters and prospects, crafting language for our fundraising campaigns, and writing copy for our staff and board to use in promoting our work. This role works in close partnership with both the Chief Development Officer (CDO) and the Associate Director of Development (ADD) to support fundraising goals, manage funder communications, and create compelling, donor-facing materials.

This position will report to the Chief Development Officer and will not have people manager responsibilities.

We are seeking a strong writer and communicator capable of synthesizing complex research and policy work into persuasive, accessible narratives tailored for a variety of philanthropic audiences. This position is well-suited for someone with sharp attention to detail, collaborative instincts, and a justice-oriented perspective on technology, equity, and society.

Primary Responsibilities

Grant Writing and Fundraising Content

• Lead the writing and coordination of grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and reports for foundations, government agencies, and other institutional funders.
• Collaborate with the CDO and ADD, and the research, policy, and finance teams to craft aligned narratives, proposal support documents, and evaluation plans.
• Track proposal and reporting deadlines, ensuring timely, complete, and high-quality submissions.
• Maintain internal records of grant activity and support communication with funders.
• Assist in developing fundraising cases for support and strategy materials used across individual and institutional fundraising efforts.

Prospecting, Research, and Donor Engagement

Development Communications and Messaging

Cross-Team Collaboration and Content Alignment

Skills & Qualifications

Core Competencies

To Apply, please submit the following items :

Applications will be reviewed beginning 08 / 20 / 2025.

Practical Considerations

The salary range for this position is noted within this job posting. Where a prospective employee or employee is compensated within this salary range is dependent upon, among other factors, actual compensation for current / former employees in the subject position; market considerations; budgetary considerations; tenure, and standing with the organization (applicable to current employees); as well as the employee's / applicant's overall qualifications : knowledge, skills, pertinent experience, and abilities.