Proposal Manager Job Description
Although some specific components of job descriptions for proposal managers vary by company, the general requirements are similar. The proposal manager organizes and oversees proposal writing, editing, illustration and production efforts in response to requests for proposals, information and oral presentations. He prepares proposal development schedules, identifies the personnel needed, delegates responsibilities and is responsible for delivering high-quality proposals on deadline.
Other People Are Reading
-
Responsibilities
-
The proposal manager reviews requests for proposals (RFPs); develops proposal plans, outlines and schedules; and prepares questions for the potential client. For each proposal effort, he assembles and reviews the efforts of an appropriate team of partners, consultants, subcontractors, writers, editors, illustrators, desktop publishers, proofreaders and quality control and print reproduction personnel. She guides proposal team writers and financial analysts in preparing the technical and cost components of the proposal, including understanding of the task, plan, past performance and personnel. She reviews proposal draft and final versions for responsiveness to RFP, thoroughness, accuracy, staffing, financial considerations, quality and effective design and layout. In addition, the proposal manager is the main point of contact for the company at bidder's conferences and during site visits.
In addition to work on specific proposals, the proposal manager creates corporate concepts and boilerplate content for use in future proposals.
After the each proposal submission, the proposal manager leads post-proposal efforts such as negotiations, contract start-up briefings and "proposal lessons learned" staff meetings.
Education
-
The proposal manager should have a bachelor's degree. It can be in English or in a field closely related to the business of the company. An MBA is a plus.
-
Experience
-
The proposal manager has at least five years of direct experience producing proposals for opportunities within the federal government. At least two years of this experience is in preparing proposals for high-value contracts. The proposal manager has an acceptable contract award percent and is current with changes in Federal Acquisition Regulations.
Software Skills
-
At a minimum, the proposal manager must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project and SharePoint. Experience with proposal development software, such as Privia from SpringCM, is a plus.
Abilities
-
The proposal manager is that rare individual who is detail oriented and has first-class leadership and motivational skills. She must be able to inspire outstanding work from team members with a range of experience and technical abilities. Other requirements include excellent time management, interpersonal and communication skills.
Working Conditions
-
The work environment for the proposal manager involves overlapping projects, tight deadlines and changing priorities.
Proposal managers periodically work extended evening and weekend hours, sometimes on short notice.
-
References
- Photo Credit business image by peter Hires Images from Fotolia.com
