Description

Global Action is seeking an experienced Director, Grants Management to guide the next chapter of its grantmaking operations by driving effectiveness and impact.

The Director, Grants Management will be responsible for the coordination, documentation, and implementation of grantmaking activities. Working closely with the Program Officer, the Director, Grants Management will manage grantmaking operations and field efforts for Global Action’s global grants portfolio. The position blends operations and mission, providing operational leadership and supporting program planning.

Reporting to the President, the Director will lead the Grants Management team, consisting of two direct reports, and be responsible for grants management strategy, systems, tools, and processes, which support GA’s grantmaking.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced leader in philanthropic grants management, with prior experience at a private foundation. They must have a deep understanding of a grant’s lifecycle. The Director, Grants Management will assess potential grant applications, engage in pre-award diligence and contracting processes, monitor grant compliance and financial performance, approve payments, foster grantee relations, and close out grants. Success in this role will require fluency in grantmaking technology and legal and compliance frameworks, and the skills to work cross-functionally and collaboratively.

The Director, Grants Management will serve a key role as co-liaison (with the Program Officer) with GA’s Board of Directors and specifically, the Science Oversight Committee, which oversees GA’s grantmaking. In collaboration with the Director, Media, the Director, Grants Management also will
contribute to GA’s communication about grantees’ work.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; degree related to the scientific or health disciplines (such as psychology, biochemistry, neuroscience, or biology) preferred but not required.
10 years of grants management experience, at least 7+ years at a private foundation.

Deep understanding of the grants lifecycle, policies, and workflow.

Advanced knowledge of the legal requirements and compliance rules for private foundation grantmaking, including in-depth understanding of expenditure responsibility regulations.

3+ years of people management experience, including a proven track record in mentorship and development.

Strong written, verbal, and analytical communication skills, including the ability to collect, review, synthesize, and present information and findings in a clear and concise manner.

Knowledge and/or prior work experience in tobacco control or smoking cessation, public health, the pharmaceutical industry, or other scientific environment preferred but not required.

Experience working with institutions in low- and middle-income countries preferred but not required.

Experience with GIFTS database a plus.