Identify and shape high-potential opportunities – Build and refine a pipeline of “big bet” initiatives by synthesizing internal priorities, market signals, and emerging trends, and rapidly translating ambiguous ideas into clear strategies, theories of change, and milestones with success metrics.
Own and drive end-to-end execution of priority initiatives – Take ownership for advancing one high-stakes opportunity at a time from concept through execution, maintaining momentum over weeks or months and increasing hit rates across a portfolio of bets.
Lead complex cross-functional collaboration – Align and mobilize teams across Product, Programs, Research, Finance, and other functions to unlock new funding pathways and deliver against ambitious, organization-wide goals.
Build and manage high-value external relationships – Develop new partnerships with senior stakeholders, particularly in technically sophisticated and fast-evolving sectors, and support or lead engagement with major donors, foundations, and strategic partners.
Develop tailored partnership and funding strategies – Create bespoke engagement plans, pitch materials, and narratives that resonate with specific partners and unlock large-scale, funding opportunities.
Support high-stakes decision making and leadership engagement – Partner closely with senior leadership (including at CEO and Board level) to prepare for critical external meetings and gatherings.

7+ years of experience in a fast-paced, high-performance environment (e.g., consulting, technology, startups, nonprofit fundraising, or related fields)
A track record of tenacious problem solving, taking ownership, and delivering results in ambiguous, high-stakes contexts
Strong cross-functional leadership skills, with the ability to align senior stakeholders without formal authority
Experience shaping, securing, or supporting multi-million-dollar partnerships, investments, or strategic initiatives
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, especially for high-stakes, external-facing materials
Strong prioritization and self-management skills, with comfort operating across multiple workstreams
Language Requirement: English

Senior Manager, Special Projects

Key skills