Proposal Manager - Fairfax VA

Proposal Manager - Fairfax VA

Summary: The Proposal Manager leads and manages the full lifecycle of proposal development for federal and state opportunities. This role is responsible for planning, coordinating, and producing compliant, compelling, and winning proposals. In addition to managing proposal efforts, the Proposal Manager will contribute as a proposal writer, developing content for technical, management, and past performance volumes as needed. The Proposal Manager collaborates closely with capture managers, subject matter experts (SMEs), and other stakeholders to ensure alignment with the capture strategy and customer requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Proposal Management: Lead proposal efforts from pre-RFP planning through final submission and post-submission activities.
• Interpret and analyze RFPs, RFIs, and other solicitation documents to develop compliant outlines, schedules, and response strategies.
• Develop and maintain proposal plans, schedules, and compliance matrices.
• Facilitate kickoff meetings, daily stand-ups, and color team reviews (Pink, Red, Gold).
• Coordinate and manage proposal teams, including writers, editors, graphic designers, and SMEs.
• Oversee proposal portal setup and document management.
• Ensure timely delivery of compliant and high-quality proposals.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for proposal-related communications, including data calls and subcontractor coordination.
• Manage proposal production, including formatting, editing, printing, and electronic submission.

Proposal Writing:

• Write and edit proposal sections, including executive summaries, technical approaches, management plans, and past performance narratives.
• Translate complex technical and operational concepts into clear, persuasive content tailored to the solicitation and customer.
• Collaborate with SMEs to gather and synthesize information into proposal-ready content.
• Ensure consistency in messaging, tone, and branding across all proposal volumes.
• Incorporate win themes, discriminators, and customer-focused messaging into written content.
• Review and revise proposal content based on feedback from color team reviews and leadership.

Required Competencies:

• Strong understanding of the federal acquisition process and government RFP requirements.
• Exceptional project management and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and proposal development tools (e.g., SharePoint, Teams, Adobe Acrobat, collaborative platforms).
• Familiarity with Shipley or similar proposal development methodologies.
• Demonstrated success in securing competitive federal contracts within the defense sector, including task orders, single-award contracts, and complex IDIQ/IDV vehicles, valued between $10M and $75M.
• Extensive experience managing and contributing to high-stakes proposal efforts for the U.S. Department of Defense, as well as other Civilian and Federal Agencies, with a focus on compliance, technical accuracy, and strategic positioning to meet mission-critical objectives.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience writing and managing proposals for federal agencies (DoD, DHS, HHS, etc.).
• APMP certification or equivalent proposal management training.
• Experience with pricing coordination and volume integration.
• Graphic and layout experience a plus.
• Familiarity with Visible Thread and Salesforce

Supervisory Responsibility:

This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities but may lead proposal teams and coordinate contributors across departments.

Work Environment:

This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Must be able to remain in a stationary position 75% of the time. Occasionally moves about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc. Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer. Expresses or exchanges ideas by means of the spoken word. Those activities in which they must convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately, loudly or quickly. Frequently moves standard office equipment up to 25 pounds. Must be able to work indoor conditions 90% of the time. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This is a full-time position. We offer a hybrid remote work environment, and typical days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Evening and weekend hours as required by business need. Travel Occasional travel is required for this position.

Experience:

2-5 years of DoD/Federal Government proposal management experience. Education Bachelor's degree. Additional Eligibility Qualifications Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, and In Design) beneficial, but not mandatory. Proactive individuals with strong attention to accuracy and detail.