Proposal manager jobs typically involve overseeing the process of preparing and submitting a written plan to provide project services. Much of the responsibilities related to proposal manager jobs include reviewing project requirements, writing, and assembling the proposal preparation team. As the process progresses, proposal manager jobs may also involve facilitating meetings and post-proposal submission reviews.
Typically, proposal managers may work in a variety of settings where organizations bid for services-for-hire. Nonprofit organizations might need proposal managers to bid on government contracts or grants. Private sector organizations usually hire proposal managers to also bid on projects for the government and other private businesses.
A person in this role may conduct a review of the requirements of the proposal, focusing on such things as format, length, and supporting details. A review of the requirements might aid in determining the feasibility of completing the proposal. Understanding proposal requirements normally paves the way for a proposal manager to assemble the team necessary to fulfill each task.
Generally, proposals are completed in one of two formats, depending on the criteria set by the requester of the project proposal. Some requesters may want a detailed document that explains how the organization can fulfill certain responsibilities of the project. Others might prefer a brief, high-level presentation that emphasizes important aspects and answers questions about the organization’s ability. Still others might expect both a detailed written document and a high-level presentation.
In either case, proposal manager jobs are typically responsible for ensuring the organization can complete the requirements of submitting the plan. Many times, this requires defining proposal milestones for meeting submission deadlines. Not only must a proposal manager make this determination, but she also must secure the resources needed.
Resources for completing a proposal project may include a team and financial resources. The project team may consist of employees tasked with duties such as conducting research and writing the proposal. Financial resources often comprise the cost to the organization to fulfill project obligations.
Although a proposal manager might delegate most of the work, ultimate responsibility lies with her for the outcome. This usually requires leadership skills to keep the team on track with tasks, milestones, and the deadlines. She may edit material team members submit to support the proposal, such as a financial budget and written details. Also, she typically supervises daily activity to determine if any tasks are behind schedule.
The work related to proposal manager jobs usually does not end with submission. If the requester accepts the organization’s bid, some proposal managers may lead contract negotiation sessions. In addition, proposal managers might also hold briefings with the staff responsible for implementing project requirements. Whether or not the bid is accepted, most proposal managers also hold post-process review meetings to determine efficiency gaps.