Development and Communications Manager

Development And Communications Manager

The Development and Communications Manager plays a vital role in advancing TNN's mission by leading strategic communications and securing institutional funding that strengthens the nonprofit sector across Tennessee.

This position serves as the organization's primary lead for communications, grant writing, grant management, grant reporting, and corporate sponsorship development. Working collaboratively across the organization, the Development and Communications Manager will tell the story of Tennessee Nonprofit Network's impact through compelling content while building and stewarding relationships with funders and corporate partners.

This is an excellent opportunity for a creative, organized, and mission-driven nonprofit professional who enjoys both strategic thinking and hands-on execution. Success in this role requires exceptional writing skills, strong project management abilities, and the capacity to manage multiple priorities while supporting a statewide organization.

While all employees are asked to make broad contributions of time and expertise to support TNN, assist team members, and help execute statewide initiatives and events, the specific responsibilities of the Development and Communications Manager include:

• Produce and manage TNN's regular member newsletter.
• Develop engaging content for social media platforms that elevates TNN's programs, advocacy efforts, research, and statewide impact.
• Write, edit, and distribute organizational publications, marketing materials, member communications, and promotional content.
• Support implementation of TNN's statewide communications strategy.
• Ensure messaging is consistent, mission-centered, and aligned across all communication channels.
• Collaborate with staff to gather stories, data, and impact metrics that highlight the value of Tennessee's nonprofit sector.
• Research foundation, corporate, and government funding opportunities aligned with TNN's mission.
• Write compelling grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and applications.
• Manage the full grant lifecycle from application through award.
• Coordinate grant implementation with program staff.
• Maintain grant calendars and ensure compliance with all funding requirements.
• Prepare timely and accurate grant reports demonstrating organizational impact and outcomes.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with corporate sponsors across Tennessee.
• Identify new sponsorship opportunities that align with TNN programs, events, and initiatives.
• Develop sponsorship materials and customized partnership proposals.
• Steward existing sponsors to encourage continued engagement and investment.
• Track communications, sponsorship, and grant performance metrics.
• Maintain accurate records related to grants, sponsorships, reporting deadlines, and communications activities.
• Collaborate with colleagues to ensure organizational messaging reflects current initiatives and strategic priorities.
• Assist with statewide events, conferences, trainings, and member engagement efforts as needed.
• Model TNN's guiding principles in all interactions, both internal and external.
• Contribute to equitable internal practices and support a diverse, inclusive organizational culture.
• Stay informed on nonprofit trends, communications best practices, and philanthropy.
• Maintain knowledge of TNN's programs and services.
• Help cultivate strong relationships with nonprofit members, funders, sponsors, and community partners throughout Tennessee.

The Development and Communications Manager should demonstrate:

• A minimum of three (3) years of professional experience in nonprofit communications, grant writing, development, marketing, or a closely related field.
• Exceptional written communication skills, including experience writing grants, newsletters, marketing content, reports, and donor communications.
• Proficiency in grant writing (minimum of 3 years).
• Experience managing multiple deadlines and complex projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in managing grant reporting requirements and compliance.
• Experience developing or supporting corporate sponsorships or fundraising partnerships.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Intermediate to advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office and communication platforms.
• Experience with CRM, donor management, email marketing, and social media platforms.
• The ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences across Tennessee.
• A demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
• Personal qualities of integrity, professionalism, collaboration, and commitment to TNN's mission.

The Development and Communications Manager will be expected to:

• Work independently while collaborating closely with colleagues across a statewide team.
• Balance multiple competing priorities while consistently meeting deadlines.
• Receive and provide constructive feedback.
• Think strategically while executing day-to-day communications and development activities with excellence.
• Travel periodically throughout Tennessee, including to the Memphis headquarters and regional events, meetings, and conferences.

The salary for this role is $70,000 annually. TNN offers an option for medical health insurance coverage (80% employer paid) with options for employee-paid dental and vision coverage. All full-time employees are eligible to participate in TNN's 401k Plan with an employer match of up to 2% of the employee's annual salary. TNN offers a flexible work environment and a generous holiday schedule. TNN provides a Flexible PTO plan which allows employees to take approved time off as needed for appointments, illness, family leave, or self-care. TNN provides opportunities and funds for professional development for all employees.

Candidates should submit both a resume and a cover letter.