Background:
Creative Associates International (Creative) is a dynamic, fast-growing global development firm that specializes in education, economic growth, democratic institutions and stabilization. Based in Washington, D.C., Creative has a field presence in more than 25 countries with a strong client portfolio that includes the U.S. Agency for International Development and the State Department, among others. Since its founding in 1977, Creative has earned a solid reputation among its clients and is well-regarded by competitors and partners alike.
Creative seeks a Regional Grants Director for upcoming donor-funded projects in West Africa. The Regional Grants Director will provide administrative and technical guidance and support to the Deputy Chief of Party and staff on the design of grant applications, guidelines, and regulations for the small grants mechanism.
The Regional Grants Director will report to the Deputy Chief of Party.
Responsibilities
The Regional Grants Director will be responsible for ensuring the effective and efficient management of grants administration by:
- Providing oversight and management of grants staff and grants program;
- Organizing and coordinating organizational staffing structure and workflow of grants staff activities and administration;
- Coordinating closely with program, finance, and procurement staff to ensure timely administration and monitoring of grant agreements;
- Ensuring compliance with Creative’s grants policies as detailed in the Field Manual and project Grant’s Manual; and
- Preparing scheduled and special reports, studies and analyses regarding the small grants program.
- Providing advisory assistance to grant applicants and lead the review of grant submissions;
- Analyzing and evaluating grant submissions for technical and budget soundness and compliance with donor regulations, recommending award actions to the contract team;
- Coordinating the issuance of awards and maintain contract documentation through the development and upkeep of a small grants database.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in management, financial analysis or accounting desirable; Master’s degree preferred;
- At least eight years’ experience with sub-grants management, preferably in West Africa;
- Solid understanding of USAID regulations and procedures pertaining to grants management;
- Demonstrated ability to perform complex tasks and to prioritize multiple projects;
- Ability to analyze technical and cost proposals and prepare reports and recommendations on whether or not applicants should be funded;
- Ability to analyze budget line items for compliance with budget guidelines;
- Proven records maintenance and database management skills; and
- Speaking, writing and reading fluency in English required. Professional proficiency in French required.