The Program Manager/Proposal Writer at WSTA is responsible for managing and overseeing the organization’s programs while leading the development of high-quality proposals to secure funding from donors. This role involves coordinating program activities, ensuring the successful implementation of projects, and writing compelling proposals that align with WSTA’s mission and donor requirements. The Program Manager/Proposal Writer will also prepare a variety of fundraising materials, including concept notes, EOIs, RFPs, and reports.

Key Responsibilities:

• Program Management:
  • Oversee the planning, implementation, and monitoring of WSTA’s programs, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.
  • Coordinate with project teams to develop work plans, track progress, and ensure that project objectives and indicators are met.
  • Manage program budgets and ensure proper financial tracking and reporting in coordination with the finance department.
  • Conduct regular field visits to monitor program activities, assess impact, and provide guidance and support to field teams.
  • Ensure compliance with donor requirements, organizational policies, and relevant legal regulations in the implementation of programs.
• Proposal Writing and Fundraising:
  • Write and develop a range of fundraising materials, including concept notes, proposals, EOIs, RFPs, and reports, adapting writing style to suit the audience.
  • Determine proposal concepts by identifying and clarifying opportunities and needs, studying requests for proposal (RFPs), and gathering necessary information.
  • Develop proposals by outlining project objectives, outcomes, deliverables, implementation methods, schedules, staffing, budgets, and evaluation criteria.
  • Meet proposal deadlines by establishing priorities, coordinating submissions, and gathering necessary information from various sources.
  • Prepare financial documents to accompany proposals, including budgets, grant expense reports, and related narratives.
  • Maintain and update knowledge of donor interests and expectations to align proposals with funders' strategies.
  • Research and analyze prospective foundation partners and grant-making strategies to prepare targeted proposals.
  • Ensure quality and consistency in proposal writing by using templates, maintaining readability, consistency, and appropriate tone.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  • Maintain and build relationships with donors, partners, and other key stakeholders to enhance WSTA’s visibility and reputation.
  • Represent WSTA in meetings, conferences, and networking events to promote the organization’s programs and explore new opportunities for collaboration.
  • Provide regular updates to donors and stakeholders on program progress and impact.
• Team Leadership:
  • Provide leadership and mentorship to program staff, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented work environment.
  • Support the professional development of staff through training, coaching, and capacity-building initiatives.
  • Ensure effective communication and coordination within the program team and across other departments.
• Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning:
  • Develop and implement monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks to measure the effectiveness and impact of programs.
  • Analyze program data to identify successes, challenges, and lessons learned, and use this information to improve program design and implementation.
  • Prepare and submit regular program reports to donors, management, and other stakeholders.
• Other Responsibilities:
  • Prepare presentations and briefing materials for donors and stakeholders.
  • Continuously evaluate and improve proposal-writing processes, approaches, and coordination strategies to enhance outcomes.
  • Reports  Director