Proposal Manager

Overview

The Proposal Manager is an individual contributor responsible for leading the development and writing of technically accurate, compelling, and persuasive proposals that align with The Canton Group’s strategic objectives. This role combines expertise in proposal management and technical writing, ensuring that the company's offerings are effectively communicated to potential clients. The Proposal Manager will work closely with cross-functional teams to craft clear, impactful narratives that showcase The Canton Group's solutions, helping to secure new business opportunities.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Proactively identify and evaluate new business opportunities, develop recap documents, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather cost and technical information.
• Lead the development and submission of proposals and create compelling presentations for down-select or finalist stages to secure client engagements.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with trusted business partners by holding regular meetings to explore partnering opportunities, share updates, and coordinate ongoing proposals.
• Collaborate with the Director of Business Development to identify, establish, and strengthen new partnerships, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and long-term success.
• Oversee the end-to-end process of proposal development, including planning, organizing, writing, and submitting high-quality proposals that align with client requirements and industry standards.
• Partner with subject matter experts (SMEs), project teams, and executive leadership to gather information and insights for crafting winning proposals. Facilitate strategy sessions to align proposal content with The Canton Group’s mission, vision, and client needs.
• Draft, edit, and finalize proposal documents, ensuring they are technically accurate, clear, and compelling. Incorporate complex technical details in a manner accessible to non-technical audiences.
• Implement and maintain version control processes to track updates and changes, ensuring accuracy and consistency in all submitted proposals.
• Review and edit proposal content for compliance with government regulations, industry standards, and client-specific requirements. Ensure all materials are complete, persuasive, and aligned with The Canton Group’s messaging.
• Manage multiple proposal projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks to meet tight deadlines and submission dates. Coordinate internal resources to ensure the timely delivery of proposals.
• Analyze feedback on proposal submissions to refine future strategies, processes, and content. Develop and implement best practices for proposal writing and management.

• At least 5 years’ experience working in a proposal management or technical writing capacity for a state or federal government contractor.
• In-depth understanding of the Technical and Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and Agile methodologies.
• Strong knowledge of public and private sector contracting processes, regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Proven track record in managing complex, high-visibility SLED (state, local, and education) and/or federal proposals preferred.
• Experience in proposal management, technical writing, and proposal preparation for government agencies.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, MS Project).
• Experience with proposal management software and content management systems is a plus.
• Exceptional writing, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to collaborate with executive leadership, project teams, and SMEs throughout the proposal process.
• Strong project management capabilities, with the ability to handle multiple contracts of varying size and complexity.
• Demonstrated ability to make informed decisions, prioritize workloads, and meet deadlines independently.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent years’ experience in a related field (e.g., Business, Communications, Technical Writing, or IT).
• Demonstrated experience in writing proposals related to Software Development, IT…