The Position
We are currently seeking a skilled Associate Grants Officer to join our team in Kenya, with the position identified under Job Reference: AGO/PD/KE/05/2026. This role requires a dedicated professional capable of managing and overseeing grant-related processes, ensuring compliance with organizational and donor requirements. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills to effectively evaluate proposals, monitor funded projects, and maintain stakeholder relationships. Proficiency in grant administration, financial management, and report preparation is essential, alongside a commitment to fostering transparency and accountability in all grant-related activities.
The Associate Grants Officer will collaborate effectively with the Country Team, providing flexible and supportive assistance in both pre-award and post-award grant management functions as a member of the grants’ management team.
The incumbent will provide oversight to country teams, including the In-country Grants Officer (GO) and the HQ Grants team, in executing various grants-related functions, such as reviewing financial reports, validating expenditures, and ensuring grantee compliance with AGRA’s internal policies and procedures.
Oversee a comprehensive range of duties and responsibilities, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and operational standards. Execute core functions encompassing strategic planning, team leadership, and process optimization to drive productivity and efficiency. Collaborate with cross-functional departments to implement initiatives that enhance performance metrics and business growth. Monitor progress, evaluate outcomes, and provide actionable insights to refine workflows and achieve key performance indicators. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement across all operational areas. Maintain compliance with industry regulations and internal policies while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.
Manage day-to-day project and In-Kind grants management of grantees within their portfolio
Creates and maintains a grant tracking database through AMIS and other tools to monitor the flow of project proposals from the time full grant documentation is received in the grants unit to the time a grant award is issued, and the first payment is made.
Identifies grantees requiring technical assistance and provides relevant training on AGRA grants compliance and reporting requirements.
Conduct pre-award due diligence for potential grantees including organization capacity assessments.
Ensure grantees consistently comply with donor-mandated requirements throughout the entire grant period, starting immediately after grant issuance.
Advise senior leadership of the country on compliance requirements pertaining to In-Kind grants.
Works in partnership with country leadership and HQ regional grants officers to establish and enforce systems, policies, and procedures governing In-Kind grants administration in Kenya.
Works in partnership with program staff to evaluate, update, and implement any required changes or revisions to grants and contracts.
Delivers capacity-building initiatives for AGRA In-Kind grantees in Kenya by conducting tailored training sessions and offering specialized technical support in monitoring and evaluation systems and tools as needed.
Ensures strict adherence to donor and AGRA-specific regulations governing In-Kind grant disbursements, as well as all applicable delegation of authority policies, particularly concerning signatory powers and established thresholds.
Maintains consistent communication with program staff to ensure timely closure of grants.
Oversee the grant-making pipeline, process RFCN submissions, and manage the issuance of Gals.
Ensure grantees and AGRA upload complete and accurate expenditure support documentation to AMIS, adhering to the requirements of the MCF and other relevant donors.
Organize grant charter reviews and prepare comprehensive grant materials for submission to the Grant Committee.
Perform thorough assessments of grantee activities and evaluate the overall health of the portfolio to ensure alignment with strategic objectives and compliance standards.
Conduct start-up orientation workshops for new awards and facilitate monthly or quarterly meetings with project staff to ensure adherence to grant contract clauses and all project-related requirements.
Evaluates whether all grant and contract documentation prepared by program staff is thorough, error-free, and fully aligned with AGRA and donor-established policies and procedures.
Responsible for coordinating and managing reporting schedules and payment deadlines for newly awarded grants.
Ensure the precise entry and systematic filing of AGRA’s annual grant-making budget within AMIS.
Key Qualifications and Experience required: A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is essential, along with a minimum of five years of hands-on experience in a similar role. Proficiency in industry-standard software and tools is mandatory, as is a strong understanding of best practices and regulatory standards. Excellent communication and organizational skills are crucial, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively is highly valued. A commitment to continuous learning and professional development is also expected.
A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in commerce, finance, or a related field, along with a recognized accounting certification, is required.
Proven experience in a grant-making environment along with a strong track record of ensuring donor compliance.
Proven track record in financial management, encompassing budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial planning, is required.
We possess the capacity to educate grant recipients on grant management and compliance obligations.
Demonstrated ability to analyze complex issues and implement structured solutions to enhance organizational policies and operational procedures.
Strong organizational capabilities, dedication to precision and maintaining a streamlined, efficient workflow, and a meticulous nature with the capacity to perform effectively under pressure.
Demonstrates exceptional interpersonal abilities, characterized by courtesy, tact, and patience.
Capable of effectively managing multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining a clear focus on priorities, ensuring timely and efficient completion of all assigned responsibilities.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
