Director of Grants & Business Partnerships

Job Description

This position is responsible for proactively identifying and cultivating corporate, foundation, and government funding relationships to secure partnerships and philanthropic support for college initiatives. The Director of Grants and Business Partnerships will work collaboratively across the college to develop funding proposals to private foundations, state, and federal agencies. This position will also expand business partnerships across the college by working closely with faculty and deans to align academic programs with area businesses who hire Riverland graduates and develop mutually beneficial business partnership/sponsorship opportunities. The Director of Grants and Business Partnerships will collaborate externally, representing Riverland in cultivating external relationships and partnerships, and internally as a partner to stakeholders across the institution.

Principle Responsibilities

1. Develop and execute a college-wide comprehensive development plan for acquiring grant funding from private foundations, state, and federal sources to support innovative college initiatives for Riverland's multiple campuses.

2. Expand external support from area businesses including a robust annual campaign, academic program partnerships and sponsorships, and philanthropic support from corporate foundations.

3. Perform other duties as assigned to ensure the smooth functioning of the department and maintain the reputation of the organization as a viable business partner.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, communication, education, marketing, or a related field plus a minimum of three (3) years of work experience in writing and submitting successful grant proposals to private foundations, state and federal agencies -OR- an equivalent combination of education and applicable professional work experience.
• Business partnership development experience, including fundraising or sales.
• Project management skills sufficient to manage multiple projects simultaneously working with various stakeholders across the institution.
• Strong communication, time-management, facilitation, and leadership skills in order to effectively lead grant project teams and oversee the process for preparing and submitting complex grant proposals.

Preferred Qualification 

• Master’s Degree or higher in Business, Communication, Education, Marketing, or a related field.
• Five (5)+ years of work experience in higher education grant writing, development, or fundraising.
• Bilingual/Multilingual fluent in Spanish, Somali, Karen, Anuak, Nuer or other languages that reflect our student body, workforce, and communities.
• Demonstrated experience working with a multicultural and underserved populations.

Other Requirements

This position requires successful completion of employment references and a driver's license background check.

A complete online application will include the following:

1. A cover letter that addresses the qualifications listed previously.

2. Current Curriculum Vitae / Resume.

Work Shift (Hours / Days of work)

8am - 4:30pm / Monday-Friday

Telework (Yes/No)

Campus & Remote options available TBD at time of hire.

NOTE: A detailed job description is available upon request, email mary.abdo@riverland.edu for that information.

About

Riverland Community College is dedicated to fostering an environment where employees, students, and the region thrive. Guided by our vision, mission, and values, we provide excellent opportunities for every student to reach their academic and career goals. Our values focus on cultivating student growth through service, collaboration, innovation, and respect. We offer a supportive and innovative culture that values individual and team contribution, with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Diversity and Inclusion: We are dedicated to continually developing a workforce that mirrors the diversity of our students and communities. We recognize the strength in varied experiences and perspectives, enhancing our ability to serve the people of our region effectively.

Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) Commitment: Riverland is an emerging Hispanic-Serving Institution. We welcome candidates with an understanding of HSIs and the Latinx student experience, further enriching our inclusive community.

Student-Centered Education: With small class sizes, personalized instruction, and hands-on learning. Riverland offers student-centered education that empowers individuals to succeed. Our diverse range of credit and non-credit courses cater to various learning modalities.

Program Offerings: With campuses in Albert Lea, Austin, and Owatonna, Riverland provides associate degrees in more than 90 career options, as well as liberal arts and sciences, and customized training, ensuring comprehensive educational opportunities for all.

Community and Quality of Life: Located in southern Minnesota, our region boasts excellent public and parochial education systems, diverse recreational activities for all seasons, and upscale communities, enriching both personal and professional lives.

Join Riverland Community College, where dedication to employees, students, and the region drives excellence in education and service.

To learn more about Riverland or Minnesota State, visit www.riverland.edu or www.minnstate.edu.