Partnership & Developement Manager

Position Summary

The Partnership & Development Manager strengthens DESTA’s sustainability by cultivating donor rela tionships, securing grants, and building partnerships that advance the organization’s two pillars: Social Justice, Food & Culture. This role ensures that fundraising and external engagement are directly tied to DESTA’s mission, while maintaining rigorous financial oversight of grants and donor contributions.

Key Responsibilities

Social Justice Pillar

• Identify and secure funding for Justice Re-entry programs, emphasizing equity, reintegration, and systemic change.
• Build and maintain partnerships with justice-focused organizations, funders, and community allies.
• Translate program outcomes into compelling donor reports that highlight measurable impact.

Food & Culture Pillar

• Develop donor campaigns that celebrate Black identity, arts, and cultural expression.
• Partner with cultural institutions and funders to expand DESTA’s reach and visibility.
• Support the Community Programming & Partnership Coordinator in aligning events with donor engagement strategies.

Financial & Grant Management

• Track grant budgets, expenditures, and compliance requirements to ensure accountability.
• Research and acquire a CRM (client relationship management tool) to track partners and data related to funding
• Utilize software such as GrantConnect to assist in identifying new partners
• Work with the Office Manager and Programme Directors to align spending with donor agreements.
• Prepare financial reports for funders, ensuring transparency and accuracy.
• Monitor grant timelines and deliverables, proactively addressing risks or gaps.

Strategic Development & Donor Alignment

Lead grant writing, reporting, and compliance across all pillars.

• Create an annual fundraising action plan that covers grants, foundations, corporations and individual donors
• Work with the members of the Board of Directors to activate key networks for fundraising and partnerships
• Cultivate long-term donor relationships by aligning DESTA’s mission with funder priorities.
• Represent DESTA externally at donor meetings, community events, and partnership forums.
• Integrate fundraising strategy with financial stewardship to build donor confidence.

Qualifications

• 3- 5 years in nonprofit fundraising, donor relations, or partnership development.
• Proven track record in funding research, grant writing, compliance, and financial tracking.
• Strong understanding of equity-focused programming and community engagement.
• Excellent communication skills; bilingual (English/French) preferred.
• Ability to translate program outcomes and financial data into donor-facing narratives.

Impact

By weaving Social Justice & Culture into every donor interaction and demonstrating financial accountability, the Partnership & Development Manager ensures DESTA’s fundraising strategy builds trust, sustains growth, and strengthens community impact.