Manager Corporate and Foundation Support

Manager Corporate and Foundation Support South Coast Botanic Garden’s mission is to connect ALL to the wonders of nature and create offbeat experiences that inspire stewardship and sustainability. The 87-acre destination is an oasis of formal garden collections and natural walking trails founded atop the most unlikely of beginnings — a sanitary landfill. Today, South Coast Botanic Garden (SCBG) stands as a testament to the regenerative power of nature and the possibilities for land reclamation as it continues to transition from landfill to landmark. The stunning Dorothy and John Bohannon Rose Garden is a signature experience, along with the show-stopping Living Wall, a long-term exhibit of eight remarkable large-scale works of fine art sculpture, a seasonal butterfly pavilion, annual public programs and rotating traveling exhibitions. Programs invite guests to interact with nature through music, craft, science, and wellness activities. Even more excitement is ahead with the creation of a 3.5-acre Marilyn and John Long Children and Family Garden scheduled for completion in the coming years. There has never been a better time to join this dynamic team. SCBG fosters an environment where strategic focus and cultural health work hand-in-hand, ensuring alignment and resilience. The ideal candidate displays a grateful and positive outlook, wholeheartedly supports SCBG’s mission to connect ALL to the wonders of nature, and has the grit necessary to grow with the Garden. Candidates should be excited to collaborate cross-functionally and contribute to the organization’s strategic goals. Position Overview The Manager of Corporate and Foundation Support is responsible for expanding and strengthening support from corporate, foundation, and government partners. This role is ideal for an emerging development professional eager to grow their skillset while making a meaningful impact at a dynamic cultural institution. This position plays a key role in researching, identifying, and cultivating new funding prospects across both local and national landscapes. With curiosity, initiative, and an entrepreneurial mindset, the Manager will conduct thoughtful outreach to potential funders and help build strong, long-term relationships grounded in shared values and mission alignment. A primary focus of this role is supporting the development and execution of grant and sponsorship proposals—from early-stage prospect research and concept development through drafting, packaging, and submission. The Manager will gain hands-on experience across the full lifecycle of institutional giving, including opportunities to support the solicitation of gifts ranging from $5,000 to $100,000, as well as contribute to budget development and revenue tracking. In addition to securing new support, the Manager will help steward existing partnerships by ensuring timely fulfillment of benefits, accurate reporting, and thoughtful engagement. This work requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines effectively. What Will Drive Success in This Role A passion for mission-driven nonprofit work Interest in public gardens, nature, cultural institutions, or community-based programming Strong organizational, analytical, and critical-thinking skills A collaborative approach and ability to work effectively across departments Ability to manage multiple priorities while building thoughtful, relationship-driven partnerships Key Responsibilities Portfolio Development Identify, cultivate, and steward a portfolio of current and prospective institutional funders to support defined revenue goals and growth objectives Partner with the Senior Director of Development to develop strategic outreach plans, sponsorship materials, and grant opportunities Proactively build new funding relationships through research, outreach, networking, and strategic introductions Leverage existing relationships and connections to expand the Foundation’s funding pipeline Fundraising & Grant Management Lead the writing, preparation, and timely submission of grant applications, letters of inquiry, sponsorship proposals, and required reports Maintain and manage a comprehensive grants calendar and funding pipeline, ensuring alignment with revenue forecasts and deadlines Coordinate cross-functional collaboration to gather programmatic, financial, and operational information needed for proposals and reporting Partner with internal stakeholders to ensure funding requests align with organizational priorities, program needs, and strategic goals Communicate clear grant objectives, benchmarks, and expectations to internal teams; facilitate ongoing check-ins to track progress and outcomes Develop compelling, funder-specific narratives that effectively communicate the Foundation’s mission, programs, and impact Collaborate with senior leadership and, when necessary, legal counsel on complex grant or funding matters Stewardship & Donor Engagement Support and strengthen relationships with institutional funders, engaging senior leadership as appropriate to advance partnerships Develop and maintain regular, meaningful touchpoints with donors and prospects to sustain engagement and long-term support Coordinate planning and logistics for donor visits, site tours, and sponsorship activations, including preparation of materials and talking points Partner with Development and Marketing teams to ensure timely and appropriate donor recognition and acknowledgment Reporting & Compliance Ensure compliance with all grant and funding requirements, including timely and accurate reporting to funders Track and report on grant activity, submissions, and outcomes; provide regular updates and insights to internal stakeholders Maintain accurate records and documentation related to funding activities and donor interactions Opportunity This full-time position offers a unique opportunity to grow within the development field, contribute to a thriving cultural institution, and play a meaningful role in advancing the Foundation’s visibility, partnerships, and long-term impact in the community.