The Position
The position of Associate Grants Officer is currently available in Kenya, as indicated by job reference AGO/PD/KE/05/2026. This role is designed to support grant management and coordination efforts, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and donor requirements. Key responsibilities include reviewing grant proposals, monitoring compliance with funding terms, and facilitating communication between stakeholders. Applicants should possess a relevant bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field, along with at least three years of experience in grant administration or a comparable role. Proficiency in grant management software, strong analytical skills, and exceptional attention to detail are essential for success in this position.
The Associate Grants Officer will collaborate closely with the Country Team to deliver flexible and collegial support in both pre-award and post-award grant management functions.
The incumbent will provide oversight to country teams, which include the In-country Grants Officer (GO) and the Headquarters (HQ) Grants team, in the execution of grants-related responsibilities, including reviewing financial reports, validating expenditures, and ensuring grantee adherence to AGRA’s internal policies and procedures.
Oversee a comprehensive range of operational tasks and strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and industry best practices. Manage cross-functional teams to drive efficiency, innovation, and sustainable growth while maintaining rigorous adherence to compliance standards. Develop and implement policies, procedures, and performance metrics to optimize workflow, mitigate risks, and enhance productivity. Lead project execution from inception to completion, fostering collaboration and accountability among stakeholders. Provide leadership in budget planning, resource allocation, and financial oversight to support long-term viability and operational excellence.
Oversee the daily operations and administration of project and In-Kind grant portfolios for assigned grantees, ensuring efficient and compliant management throughout the funding cycle.
Develops and administers a grant tracking database within AMIS and other systems to systematically oversee the progression of project proposals, beginning with receipt of complete grant documentation in the grants unit and continuing through issuance of the grant award and disbursement of the initial payment.
The role assesses grantees in need of technical support and delivers tailored training sessions focused on AGRA grant compliance and reporting obligations.
Perform comprehensive pre-award due diligence on prospective grantees, with a focus on evaluating their organizational capacity.
To guarantee that grantees comply with all donor-mandated requirements throughout the duration of the grant, from issuance to completion.
Offer strategic guidance to national leadership regarding compliance obligations associated with In-Kind grants.
Partners with country leadership and HQ regional grants officers to execute systems, policies, and procedures for administering In-Kind grants in Kenya.
Works in partnership with program staff to assess, refine, and document any required updates or revisions to grants and contracts.
Develops the capacity of AGRA In-Kind grantees in Kenya by delivering targeted training sessions and offering specialized technical assistance in monitoring and evaluation systems and tools as needed.
Ensures adherence to donor and AGRA-specific regulations governing in-kind grant management, as well as all relevant delegation of authority policies, particularly concerning signatory powers and established thresholds.
Ensures ongoing communication and follow-up with program staff to facilitate the timely closure of grants.
Monitor the grant-making pipeline, process Requests for Contributions (RFCNs), and issue Grant Award Letters (Gals).
Ensure that grantees and AGRA submit fully complete and accurate expenditure support documentation to AMIS in accordance with MCF requirements and any other relevant donor guidelines.
Review and organize grant charters, then compile all necessary grant materials for submission to the Grants Committee for final review.
Perform comprehensive monitoring of grantees and conduct thorough assessments of portfolio performance health to ensure alignment with established objectives and standards.
Develop and deliver initial orientation workshops for new awards, ensuring project staff understand grant contract clauses and all associated requirements, while also organizing and facilitating monthly or quarterly meetings to maintain compliance and alignment with project objectives.
Evaluates whether grant and contract documentation, prepared by program staff, is thorough, accurate, and fully aligned with AGRA and donor-established policies and procedures.
Responsible for structuring and managing reporting schedules and payment processes for newly awarded grants.
Accurate data entry and systematic filing of AGRA’s annual grant-making budget in AMIS are essential responsibilities.
Required qualifications and experience include a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, along with a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in software development. Proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++ is essential, along with strong problem-solving abilities and excellent communication skills. Candidates should demonstrate experience with agile methodologies and a proven track record of delivering high-quality software solutions. Familiarity with cloud platforms like AWS or Azure is a plus, as is experience with DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines.
A Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Finance, or a related field is required, along with a professional accounting certification.
Seasoned professionals with a proven track record in grant administration, particularly within grant-making institutions, are encouraged to apply. Applicants should exhibit a strong understanding of donor compliance protocols and best practices.
Proven track record in overseeing financial operations, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic allocation of resources to optimize organizational performance.
Proven capability in conducting training sessions for grantees on grant management and compliance standards is required.
Demonstrates exceptional problem-solving abilities and a commitment to enhancing policies and procedures through structured, systematic improvements.
The position demands strong organizational capabilities, a dedication to precision, and the maintenance of a prompt and efficient workflow, coupled with an exceptional attention to detail and the capacity to perform under pressure.
Effective interpersonal skills, including courtesy, tact, and patience, are essential.
Demonstrated skill in managing multiple tasks simultaneously while effectively prioritizing workload to meet deadlines and maintain productivity.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
