Job Description: Proposal Manager 

Reports to: Proposal Segment Lead 

Purpose: Lead full cycle proposal activities and manage the development and implementation of proposal plans and strategy 

Role Overview:  

• Lead and manage the end-to-end proposal process for complex, high-value opportunities (>$1M), taking full ownership from planning through to final delivery 

• Collaborate closely with Business Development Directors (BDDs) and cross functional team members to establish strategic alignment, understanding client goals, and developing proposals that are tailored to those objectives 

• Oversee the proposal lifecycle as a Project Manager, ensuring all components are aligned, deadlines are met, and deliverables adhere to compliance and brand standards 

• Engage in strategic discussions with BDDs and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to shape proposal strategy, content, and messaging, ensuring a client-centric approach 

• Develop, manage, and refine project plans, assign responsibilities, tracking progress, and adjusting schedules as needed to maintain timelines 

• Ensure proposals are structurally sound, error-free, and complete by managing a rigorous quality control process that includes thorough content reviews and sourcing any missing information 

• Write new content, adapt existing materials, and manage a centralized content repository to drive efficiencies and enhance the quality of future proposals 

• Design proposal layouts in InDesign that align with RFP requirements while maintaining company brand standards 

• Provide leadership and oversight to proposal developers, coordinating their efforts and mentoring them on project management best practices 

• Other duties as assigned 

Qualifications:  

• Proven track record in project management, with experience overseeing complex proposal processes, timelines, and resources 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with an expert understanding of grammar, clarity, and consistency 

• Demonstrated leadership capabilities with the ability to manage and mentor team members and influence stakeholders across decentralized, cross-functional teams 

• Strong strategic thinking skills, with the ability to lead proposal strategy discussions and tailor content to client-specific needs 

• Advanced time management and organizational skills, with experience managing multiple high-priority projects simultaneously 

• Ability to navigate complex technical documents (such as RFPs) and synthesize information into clear, persuasive content 

• Proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Microsoft Office Suite, and Adobe Acrobat Pro, with experience designing proposal layouts that meet technical and branding standards 

• Ability to proactively solve problems and adapt under tight deadlines 

• Experience in content management, with a focus on continuous process improvement to enhance proposal team efficiency 

• Willingness to serve as a subject matter expert (SME) and resource for BDDs and team members 

Requirements:  

• Bachelor’s Degree in English, Writing, Communications, Journalism, or related field preferred 

• 5+ years of related work experience, including 3+ years in proposal management or professional writing 

• Demonstrated experience in project management, including managing large, complex proposals 

• Experience in food service, hospitality, or related industries preferred 

• Proficient with Adobe InDesign, Adobe Acrobat Pro, and Microsoft Office Suite