Partnerships & Operations Associate, Acumen America

The Partnerships & Operations Associate at Acumen America will undertake a variety of tasks that include supporting fundraising efforts, managing donor communications, assisting in operations, and event planning. This versatile role is crucial in identifying philanthropic prospects, tracking the fundraising pipeline, and creating donor pitch materials. Additionally, the associate will play a key role in maintaining CRM systems like Salesforce, ensuring that grant reporting and administrative operations run smoothly.

We're looking for someone with a minimum of three years of experience in fundraising, operations, or project management. Ideal candidates should possess excellent organizational skills, strong communication abilities, and a proactive mindset. Familiarity with technology solutions to improve operational efficiency is preferred, along with a commitment to Acumen America’s mission of tackling inequality and poverty.

Yes! Acumen America operates a hybrid work schedule, which means you'll have the flexibility to work from home part of the week, fostering a balance between collaboration in the office and focused work time at home.

At Acumen America, you’ll be stepping into a vibrant startup environment characterized by creativity, collaboration, and a strong commitment to social impact. You’ll work alongside passionate team members dedicated to finding innovative solutions to poverty, which fosters an inspiring and dynamic workplace.

As a Partnerships & Operations Associate at Acumen America, you'll have a unique opportunity to learn and develop in a growing organization. You’ll gain exposure to various aspects of impact investment and operational strategies, and there is significant potential for career advancement within our cooperative culture that values initiative and innovative thinking.

To effectively manage multiple projects, I prioritize tasks by evaluating deadlines and project impact. I utilize tools like to-do lists and project management software to visually track progress and ensure that high-priority items get immediate attention, enabling me to deliver quality work within deadlines.

Certainly! In my previous role, I assisted in drafting grant proposals by conducting thorough research on potential funders and aligning their interests with our projects. I focused on creating compelling narratives that highlighted our impact, which ultimately contributed to successful funding outcomes.

I believe clear and open communication is key. I prepare agendas and informational materials ahead of time to ensure everyone is on the same page. During events, I actively engage participants, encouraging networking while also addressing any questions or concerns that arise promptly.

I'm proficient in using Salesforce and Airtable for CRM purposes. These tools allow me to maintain organized donor profiles and track contributions effectively. Additionally, I regularly generate reports that analyze fundraising trends and successes, helping inform future strategies.

Key skills for this role include strong organizational abilities, effective communication, adaptability, and problem-solving. Being a self-starter who can work independently while also collaborating across teams is critical for success in a fast-paced environment.

I would start by thoroughly researching potential partners to understand their missions and interests, which would inform how to tailor our approach. Building genuine relationships involves regular communication, transparency about our goals, and demonstrating how their support can make a significant impact.

In a previous job, two team members had differing views on project direction. I facilitated a meeting where each could express their perspectives. By focusing on our common goals and encouraging collaboration, we found a compromise that combined elements from both sides, leading to a more robust project outcome.

I emphasize attention to detail and cross-check all information with relevant documentation before submission. Additionally, I maintain a systematic approach, using tracking tools to monitor timelines and responsibilities, and I seek feedback from teammates to ensure we meet all required standards.

I regularly engage with industry publications, attend webinars, and participate in relevant networking events. I also connect with peers in the field to share insights and best practices, ensuring I remain informed about innovative approaches in fundraising.

My motivation stems from a deep-seated belief in social equity and the potential of scalable solutions to create meaningful change. Being part of a team that actively works to dismantle barriers to opportunity is incredibly fulfilling, and I’m excited to contribute to initiatives that empower underserved communities.