Grants Manager at Enhancing Financial Innovation & Access (EFInA)

Job description

Reporting to the Head of Innovation Funding, the Grants Manager will manage and monitor the performance of all grants awarded by EFInA, including the Innovation Fund and the Scale Fund. The Grants Manager will support the development of a robust and diverse grants portfolio, establish an effective grants management system, track the performance of each grantee, and advise grantees as needed to help maximise the impact of grant-funded projects. The Grants Manager will be responsible for reporting on the performance of the grants and engaging with grantees and other stakeholders to maximise impact of EFInA’s funding.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage EFInA grants throughout the full grant lifecycle, from identifying prospective grantees to reviewing proposals, conducting due diligence, developing Grant Agreements, monitoring grants according to the terms of the Grant Agreements and leading the grant conclusion or termination process
• Actively support the development of a robust and diverse grants pipeline by identifying and engaging with prospective grantees
• Effectively manage all EFInA grants by developing, implementing, and maintaining effective grants management processes. Regularly update the Innovation Fund Policies & Procedures Manual for approval by the Head of Innovation Funding
• Manage the grantee relationship by maintaining regular contact with all grantees, conducting at least one site visit per quarter for each grantee, arranging regular feedback/interaction sessions and providing technical assistance where applicable in order for grantees to meet their financial inclusion targets
• Monitor and evaluate grants to ensure that: grantees are supported to meet milestones/targets, the impact of grant-funded projects is clear, lessons learned are shared broadly, and the achievement of successful grant-funded projects is showcased
• Ensure that all project reports are developed and submitted within the timelines specified in the Grant Agreement. Produce quarterly reports summarising progress of all existing grants for sign off by the Head of Innovation Funding
• Oversee the financial management of grants, including grantee budgets and audits, to ensure timely grant disbursement, ensure appropriate deployment of grants, and prevent financial mis-appropriation
• Capture lessons learned based on the grantee experience for dissemination within EFInA and among relevant stakeholders
• Support the Head of Innovation Funding and Head of Knowledge & Evidence in communicating the achievement of EFInA’s grant portfolio to various stakeholders to deepen financial inclusion in Nigeria

This role is based in Lagos, Nigeria. 

Background and Qualifications

The Grants Manger will possess the gravitas and credibility to build and maintain relationships with current and prospective grantees. He/she will be able to represent EFInA’s objectives and work with partners to deepen financial inclusion. The individual will be a strong team player who is able to develop and inspire action among peers and direct reports.

This is a market making role that requires a fast learner who can understand the technical elements of the grants and excel in monitoring the grants portfolio throughout the lifecycle of the grants. The role demands a person who is an analytical problem solver. He/she will have a successful track record of innovative thinking and constant improvement of processes and systems. 

The successful applicant will be comfortable negotiating change, taking responsibility, solving problems and making complex strategic and operational decisions. Highly adaptable, creative, and used to delivering results in a dynamic and fluid working environment, the Grants Manager will be expected to contribute to EFInA as soon as he/she joins the organisation.

Essential

• A Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Finance, Banking, Law, Business Administration, or any other related discipline (A Master’s degree in International Development or a relevant Social Science related discipline is advantageous)
• Minimum of five years’ experience in a grants management related role, with a track record of success
• Strong relationship management experience with the ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders
• Experience working in a complex and pioneering environment and of managing or facilitating change
• Strong written and verbal communications skills
• Experience writing and reviewing contracts and agreements
• Experience evaluating business proposals, including reviewing and creating budgets
• Highly numerate
• Demonstrated project management experience (Prince 2 or a similar project management certification would be advantageous)
• Proven ability to produce concise and well-structured reports and presentations
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft programmes (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project)
• Experience in one or more of EFInA’s strategic areas
• Commitment to the financial inclusion agenda