The Lead Grants Specialist has a high level of expertise in award administration and financial services. The position administers and maintains public award documentation and completes financial activities in accordance with TNC policies and procedures, public rules and regulations, and best practices in financial/organizational management. The Lead Grants Specialist provides assistance to all levels of personnel in their specialty area and responds to complex employee/management questions and problems based on advanced knowledge of the subject area.
Key Responsibilities
Administer and maintain public award documentation and execute financial activities adhering to TNC policies, donor rules, and best practices.
Oversee and manage a team of Grant Specialists and/or Grants Associates within the assigned geographical area.
Share knowledge with other members of the Grants Services Network (GSN), support GSN activities, and supervise GSN staff.
Monitor team funding trends and collaborate with the Grants Manager on workload distribution, new hires, and project implementation.
Respond to complex financial, compliance, and award administration queries from staff and management.
Evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls and recommend process improvements to enhance efficiency and compliance.
Serve as a technical resource providing guidance on accounting, financial, and compliance matters.
Qualifications & Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field and at least 5 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least 3 years of experience in public award accounting, financial management, compliance, and financial analysis.
Strong knowledge of accounting principles, practices, regulations, and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Demonstrated experience using accounting and financial reporting systems.
Experience with U.S. Federal Uniform Guidance, state and local regulations, and standard contract clauses.
Experience with multilateral and international donor regulations (e.g., IKI, UK GOV, GCF, GEF, UNDP, BAF).
Demonstrated experience recruiting, supervising, developing, and managing staff.
Fluency in written and spoken English.
Professional certification such as CPA or CIA preferred.
Desired Qualifications
Multilingual skills and/or experience working in multicultural environments.
Advanced expertise in Microsoft Excel and demonstrated ability to analyze and manage complex financial data.
Demonstrated experience interpreting complex regulatory requirements and applying them to practical business situations.
Experience monitoring compliance with organizational policies, laws, and financial best practices.
Ability to independently identify, analyze, and resolve complex financial, compliance, or operational issues.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply online via the Nature Conservancy application link: Apply to Nature Conservancy.