Grant Writing Officer at American University of Nigeria (AUN)

The Grant Writing Officer is charged with the responsibility of identifying, researching, and securing external funding opportunities that support the mission of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) and its humanitarian and educational initiatives. Working closely with the Atiku Institute for Development, the officer will develop high-quality proposals, concept notes, and grant applications to international donors, foundations, foreign aid agencies, and other funding institutions. This position requires exceptional research, writing, and relationship-building skills, as well as a deep commitment to advancing AUN’s dual mission of excellence in education and community development.

DETAILED LISTING OF RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct in-depth research to identify relevant funding opportunities from international donors, foreign governments, foundations, NGOs, and multilateral organizations.
• Track trends in humanitarian aid, development funding, and education-related grants that align with AUN and AID priorities.
• Prepare compelling and competitive proposals, concept notes, letters of inquiry, and full grant applications.
• Ensure all proposals align with donor requirements, technical guidelines, and institutional goals.
• Collaborate with program managers, faculty, and leadership to gather information and articulate project goals, outcomes, and impact.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with funding agencies, development partners, and grant-making bodies.
• Support the Atiku Institute and AUN leadership in engaging with donors through communication materials, reports, and updates.
• Maintain a database of funding opportunities, deadlines, and submission statuses.
• Assist in preparing progress and final reports to funders, ensuring compliance with grant agreements.
• Coordinate with finance and program teams to prepare budgets and track grant expenditures.
• Help support faculty who are seeking grants with providing them appropriate documents.
• Perform any other duties as assigned or delegated by the supervisor.

Requirements for the position:

• Bachelor’s degree in International Development, English, Communications, Education, Public Policy, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 3–5 years of proven experience in grant writing and fundraising, preferably in higher education, NGOs, or international development.
• Demonstrated success in securing grants from major international donors (e.g., USAID, DFID/FCDO, EU, UN agencies, international foundations).
• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills with the ability to tailor proposals to donor priorities.
• Familiarity with humanitarian aid, education development, and community engagement programs in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for collaboration with internal teams and external donors.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet strict deadlines.

Other requirements, abilities for the position:

• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to meet high-quality writing standards.
• Financial literacy to support budget development and compliance monitoring.
• Creativity in developing program narratives and framing institutional strengths.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and grant management software.

Description of Benefits:

• Salary and benefits are commensurate with experience and job classification as approved by the University.