Are you looking to be part of a high-performing team of go-getters who make a difference both on and off the court? Join the Detroit Pistons as we harness the power of basketball to unite our city, elevate our fans, and drive lasting community impact.
The CSR & Foundation Manager will lead the planning and execution of all fundraising initiatives, grantmaking operations, and financial management for the organization’s foundation. This role is responsible for driving revenue through innovative fundraising campaigns and events, ensuring effective and impactful grant distribution, and maintaining fiscal oversight of the foundation’s budget. This position will also play a key role in strengthening community relationships, enhancing brand reputation through philanthropic efforts, and aligning foundation initiatives with broader organizational CSR priorities.
WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING:
Fundraising Strategy & Execution
- Lead and manage all foundation fundraising initiatives, including but not limited to 50/50 Raffle program, online auctions, annual Fundraising Dinner/Gala, premium sales golf outing, additional fundraising campaigns and donor engagement efforts
- Develop and execute a comprehensive annual fundraising strategy to maximize revenue and donor participation
- Identify new revenue opportunities, partnerships, and donor pipelines
- Collaborate with Corporate Partnerships to integrate sponsors into community and fundraising initiatives
Fundraising Events & Campaigns
- Oversee end-to-end planning and execution of all fundraising events
- Develop event strategies that enhance donor experience and drive measurable ROI
- Manage event budgets, logistics, vendor relationships, and post-event reporting
- Track and analyze performance metrics to continuously improve fundraising outcomes
Grant Management & Community Investment
- Oversee the full life cycle of grantmaking, including application processes, evaluation and selection, distribution and compliance
- Provide quarterly reporting on grant utilization and impact
- Develop recommendations for new grantees aligned with organizational goals and CSR priorities
- Maintain and update community organization profiles and nomination tracking systems
Budget & Financial Oversight
- Manage the foundation’s annual budget, including forecasting, tracking, and reconciliation
- Ensure responsible allocation of funds across programs, grants, and events
- Monitor fundraising revenue vs. targets and adjust strategies accordingly
- Partner with finance to ensure compliance and reporting accuracy
Programs & Community Engagement
- Support and oversee key community programs, including Basketball for All, Black Excellence Scholarship Competition, Pistons Neighbors Program and related events
- Build and maintain strong relationships with community organizations and stakeholders
- Serve as a primary liaison for select foundation initiatives
Marketing, Communications & Operations
- Manage foundation communications channels, including email and website updates
- Collaborate with internal teams to amplify storytelling and impact reporting
- Support activation of CSR platforms and initiatives aligned with the foundation
- Provide reporting, insights, and presentations to leadership
Additional Responsibilities
- Support the Senior Director with strategic projects and initiatives
- Assist in cross-functional collaboration to align foundation efforts with organizational priorities
- Manage game night staffing and responsibilities of 50/50 raffles
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Sport Management, Marketing, Communications, Nonprofit Management, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 3–5+ years of experience in Foundation or nonprofit management, Fundraising and development, Event planning and execution, Corporate social responsibility or community relations
- Familiarity with donor management systems and fundraising platforms
- Experience with grantmaking and impact reporting
- Proven ability to design and execute successful fundraising strategies
- Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets
- Exceptional project management and organizational skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Strong written and verbal communication skills across all organizational levels
- Relationship-building skills with donors, partners, and community stakeholders
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Willingness to work nights, weekends, and holidays as required
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
We are dedicated to ensuring equal access throughout the employment process. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities to enable participation in the application and interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. If you require an accommodation, please contact us to request assistance.