Proposal Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving business landscape, the need for effective Proposal Managers is increasingly critical.

As businesses compete for opportunities, the demand for strategic minds who can develop, manage and deliver compelling business proposals becomes paramount.

But let’s dig deeper: What is truly expected of a Proposal Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager trying to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes of proposal management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Proposal Manager job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Proposal Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Proposal Managers are responsible for overseeing the development of proposals to ensure they are compelling, compliant, and well-written.

They work closely with various teams within the organization, including sales, marketing, and technical teams, to develop and deliver proposals that effectively communicate the organization’s capabilities and value proposition to potential clients.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Lead the proposal development process, including conducting kickoff meetings, developing proposal outlines and schedules, and coordinating proposal team activities
• Analyze request for proposal (RFP) documents to understand client requirements and ensure proposals meet these requirements
• Work with subject matter experts to develop proposal content that demonstrates the organization’s capabilities and solutions
• Edit, revise, and proofread proposal content to ensure it is clear, concise, and free of grammatical errors
• Manage the proposal review process and incorporate feedback to improve the quality of the proposal
• Coordinate the production and delivery of final proposal documents, including printing, binding, and shipping as necessary
• Develop and maintain proposal libraries and templates to streamline the proposal development process
• Conduct post-proposal reviews to gather feedback and lessons learned for future proposals
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and changes to ensure proposals are current and competitive

 

Proposal Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a highly organized Proposal Manager to oversee the development of business proposals.

The Proposal Manager’s responsibilities include gathering and formatting information, preparing clear and concise proposals in response to client needs, and managing proposal submission deadlines.

The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of proposal structure and an ability to create compelling presentations.

The successful candidate will have proven experience in project management and team supervision.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate all aspects of the proposal process from initiation to delivery
• Develop and edit proposal content to ensure a consistent voice and compelling story
• Work closely with various departments to gather necessary information
• Adhere to submission deadlines and manage proposal calendar
• Create and maintain a proposal library and other related databases
• Coordinate with graphic design teams to create visually appealing proposals
• Conduct regular proposal progress status meetings and report proposal outcomes
• Ensure proposals are fully compliant with clients’ requirements

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Proposal Manager or similar role
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong project management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple proposals at a time
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat
• Attention to detail and ability to work within stringent deadlines
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, or related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Proposal Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with the possibility of remote work. Some travel may be required for client meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Business Development or Sales Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Proposal Manager Do?

Proposal Managers typically work for companies that need to submit proposals or bids for contracts in various industries such as construction, IT, and engineering.

They also frequently work in consulting firms and can work as independent contractors.

Their primary role is to manage the creation of business proposals.

They work closely with different departments like sales, marketing, finance, and technical teams to gather all necessary information to prepare a compelling proposal.

They are responsible for understanding the requirements of the Request for Proposal (RFP), setting and managing proposal deadlines, and ensuring all guidelines and requirements are met.

Proposal Managers also write and edit proposal content, ensuring it is persuasive, accurate, and well-structured.

They make sure that the proposal aligns with the company’s brand and values while also addressing the client’s needs and expectations.

Upon completion, they review the proposal to ensure it is free of errors and is ready for submission.

They may also be involved in presenting the proposal to the potential client.

The role also includes refining the proposal process and templates for future bids, and often involves analyzing previous proposals, successes, and failures to improve future proposals.

In some organizations, Proposal Managers may also be responsible for post-submission follow-ups and maintaining relationships with clients.

 

Proposal Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient proposal manager must possess a wide range of skills and qualifications that align with the job description, such as:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey the proposal’s content and objectives to the team and stakeholders.
• Strong research skills to gather necessary information for the preparation of a solid, convincing proposal.
• Excellent project management skills to handle multiple proposals simultaneously, ensuring each is given adequate attention and meets its deadline.
• Detail-oriented approach to ensure accuracy and consistency in all proposal documents and presentations.
• Leadership abilities to guide and direct the proposal team effectively, ensuring cooperation and coordination among all involved parties.
• Strong negotiation skills for discussing the terms and conditions of the proposal with clients and stakeholders.
• Problem-solving skills to tackle any issues that may arise during the proposal development process and find effective solutions.
• Knowledge of business strategy and the ability to understand and interpret business needs, aligning them with the proposal’s goals.
• Proficiency in relevant software and tools used for proposal creation and presentation.

 

Proposal Manager Experience Requirements

Proposal Managers are often required to have a bachelor’s degree in a field such as business, finance, marketing or a related field.

Most employers look for candidates with at least 3-5 years of experience in proposal development or grant writing.

Entry-level candidates may have experience through an internship or part-time role in a business development or marketing department, where they gain experience developing and managing proposals.

Additionally, these professionals may also gain relevant experience in roles such as Proposal Coordinator or Business Analyst.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience in proposal management often have developed their skills in project management, strategic planning, and effective writing.

At this level, they are likely to have a track record of winning bids and securing projects.

Those with over 7 years of experience may have leadership experience, such as managing a team of proposal writers or coordinators.

At this stage, they may be ready for a senior proposal management or directorial position.

Regardless of the years of experience, successful Proposal Managers often have strong research skills, are detail-oriented, and are able to coordinate with various departments to develop competitive proposals.

 

Proposal Manager Education and Training Requirements

Proposal Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, communications, or a related field.

They need a solid understanding of project management principles and they must be proficient in proposal writing.

This includes the ability to understand and analyze complex business needs and requirements.

Some positions may require Proposal Managers to have a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or a similar field.

Specialization in contract management or project management could be beneficial.

Certification as a Certified Proposal Management Professional (CPMP) from the Association of Proposal Management Professionals is also a valuable credential that many employers seek.

In addition, Proposal Managers must have excellent written and verbal communication skills, and they should be proficient in using various software applications, such as Microsoft Office Suite, to create and manage proposals.

Ongoing learning and development are crucial in this role, as Proposal Managers need to stay updated on the latest trends and techniques in proposal management, as well as changes in industry regulations and standards.

 

Proposal Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Proposal Manager is $81,748 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can change depending on the level of experience, industry, and geographical location.

 

Proposal Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Proposal Manager need?

A Proposal Manager should have excellent written and verbal communication skills as they are responsible for crafting and presenting proposal documents.

They should also have strong project management skills to meet proposal deadlines and coordinate different contributors.

Analytical abilities are important for understanding and responding to request for proposals (RFPs).

They should also have good teamwork skills as they often work with various departments in the organization.

 

Do Proposal Managers need a degree?

While a Proposal Manager doesn’t necessarily need a specific degree, most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, communications, or a related field.

However, experience in proposal development or a related field may be accepted in place of formal education.

Additionally, certification as an APMP (Association of Proposal Management Professionals) can prove beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Proposal Manager resume?

On a Proposal Manager’s resume, look for prior experience in proposal writing or management.

Evidence of successful project management and strong organizational skills are also important.

A strong Proposal Manager resume should also include examples of excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Additional assets may include experience in the specific industry your company operates in, as well as familiarity with proposal software.

 

What qualities make a good Proposal Manager?

A good Proposal Manager is highly organized and can effectively manage multiple projects at once.

They have excellent attention to detail to ensure that all parts of a proposal are completed accurately and on time.

They are adept at leading a team and coordinating efforts across various departments.

A good Proposal Manager also has a deep understanding of the business and its offerings, allowing them to craft compelling proposals that align with the needs of potential clients.

 

What are the daily duties of a Proposal Manager?

A Proposal Manager typically starts their day by reviewing any new RFPs and assessing their requirements.

They spend a good part of their day coordinating with various departments to gather necessary information for proposals.

They also spend time writing, editing, and refining proposal documents.

Part of their duties also involve conducting reviews of completed proposals to ensure they meet all necessary criteria before submission.

They may also have meetings with potential clients to understand their needs better.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we unraveled the intricate role of a proposal manager.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about writing proposals.

It’s about orchestrating strategic plans to win projects, one proposal at a time.

With our go-to proposal manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to make your next move.

But why limit yourself?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your immediate resource for crafting laser-focused job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Just remember:

Every proposal is a step towards your company’s success.

Let’s shape that success. Together.

How to Become a Proposal Manager (Complete Guide)

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