Lead the end-to-end development of winning federal and commercial proposals as a Proposal Manager, strategically guiding cross-functional teams from solicitation analysis through submission. This role is ideal for a dynamic proposal strategist who thrives coordinating complex, deadline-driven efforts and crafting compelling, compliant responses.
Mission
Agile Defense is a defense innovation company focused on delivering adaptive solutions to support the nation's critical missions. This role supports the company's growth strategy by winning federal and commercial contracts that advance national security and vital interests.
About this role
About Agile Defense
At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges require new solutions. That’s why we always look to the future and embrace change with an unmovable spirit and the courage to build for what comes next.
Our vision is to bring adaptive innovation to support our nation's most important missions through the seamless integration of advanced technologies, elite minds, and unparalleled agility—leveraging a foundation of speed, flexibility, and ingenuity to strengthen and protect our nation’s vital interests.
Requisition #: Pending
Job Title: Proposal Manager
Location: 1430 Spring Hill Rd Suite 200 McLean, Virginia 22102
Required Certification(s): APMP or Shipley Training desired
SUMMARY
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Proposal Manager to lead the development of compelling, high-quality responses to federal and commercial solicitations. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for crafting winning proposals and leading collaborative teams, we encourage you to apply and join our mission-driven organization.
As a key member of our Growth team, you will manage all aspects of proposal creation, from interpreting solicitation requirements to submission and delivery. This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to winning business strategies and drive organizational success.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Proposal Development Management: Oversee the full lifecycle of proposal creation, including writing, editing, compliance checks, and production, ensuring adherence to solicitation requirements and deadlines.
Team Collaboration: Lead and coordinate efforts with capture managers, subject matter experts, writers, and graphic designers to develop winning proposals.
Strategic Planning: Develop proposal schedules, compliance matrices, win strategies, and themes that align with solicitation requirements and business objectives.
Leadership and Mentorship: Guide and mentor proposal staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
Stakeholder Engagement: Conduct kick-off meetings, color team reviews, and daily status calls to ensure alignment and progress.
Content Development: Write, edit, and refine proposal sections, including executive summaries, management plans, past performance, and staffing plans, integrating strategic themes and discriminators.
Quality Assurance: Ensure proposals are clear, persuasive, and compliant with all solicitation instructions, including Section L and M requirements.
Database and Artifact Management: Maintain solicitation documents and proposal artifacts on collaboration platforms such as SharePoint or MS Teams.
Continuous Improvement: Conduct post-submission reviews to identify lessons learned and improve future proposal processes.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Certifications
APMP or Shipley Training desired
Education, Background, and Years of Experience
Bachelor’s degree preferred (fields such as English, Literature, Business, or a related discipline are ideal). Equivalent experience or certifications (e.g., APMP, Shipley) will also be considered.
Minimum of 2 - 5 years of experience managing federal proposal processes, with expertise in IT services, cybersecurity, healthcare, or professional solutions a plus.
In-depth understanding of federal procurement processes and solicitation requirements.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and desktop publishing tools (e.g., Adobe Acrobat, InDesign).
Superior writing, editing, and organizational skills, with the ability to craft persuasive, non-technical, and technical content.
Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent proposals, lead diverse teams, and meet strict deadlines.
ADDITIONAL SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
Required Skills
Working knowledge of the Federal Government procurement process
Expertise with Microsoft suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Adobe PDF
Preferred Skills
Orals experience desired
WORKING CONDITIONS
Environmental Conditions
Office
Strength Demands
Sedentary – 10 lbs. Maximum lifting, occasional lift/carry of small articles. Some occasional walking or standing may be required. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
Physical Requirements
Stand or Sit
Required skills
- Federal procurement process management
- Proposal writing and editing
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Adobe Acrobat and desktop publishing
- Compliance matrix development
- Team leadership and coordination
- Solicitation requirements interpretation
- Strategic planning and win strategy development