Grants Manager

Position Title: Grants Manager

Department: Program Administration 

Reports to: Senior Grants Manager 

Position Objective and Summary:

The Grants Manager researches, develops content and submits government proposals to support and grow UCAN programs for youth and families. This position is charged with maintaining and expanding a defined list of funding submissions under the guidance of the senior grants manager. This position communicates continuously within the Program Administration team to assess and execute funding proposals. 

Essential Functions and Responsibilities: 

Grant Writing

• Submits grant applications to governmental entities and organizations for financial support for UCAN programs.
• Researches available funding sources, their timing and requirements.
• Completes data requests and other information pertinent to potentially securing government grants.
• Develops effective grant objectives, budget justifications and evaluation techniques in concert with UCAN Quality Improvement staff and program leadership.
• Creates internal Work Plans and Task Lists and coordinates the effort of information gathering among Departments to develop proposal components; follows-up, as necessary, to ensure timely proposal development and submission.
• Develops proposal content in a timely manner to allow for internal review and modifications; solicits feedback within specified timeframes.
• Assists in maintaining record keeping system to track grant deadlines, dates and necessary activities required to secure funding.
• Responsible for meeting grant deadlines, grant proposal requirements and other requirements in the grant process. 

Funding Process Management 

• Researches and accesses relevant and requested information and data to prepare for and enhance funding conversations and opportunities.
• Attends relevant meetings regarding proposals and funding opportunities for grants with government entities.
• Demonstrates a thorough knowledge of UCAN programs and how various programs can be woven together to maximize funding opportunities.
• Resolves any challenges with grant application implementation that occur within the UCAN program teams.
• Tracks the submission of requested documents, their receipt and acceptance to ensure program compliance and that any adjustments are met.
• Facilitates relationship management. 

Professionalism and Work Conduct 

• Behaves with integrity, demonstrates high ethical standards, and displays a positive image of UCAN.
• Acts in a professional manner at all times and maintains appropriate boundaries with clients.
• Demonstrates accountability for results and keeps commitments to others.
• Reports to work, meetings, training, and job related activities prepared and as scheduled.
• Demonstrates openness and respect for cultural and socioeconomic characteristics of clients and coworkers.
• Understands and supports UCAN’s standard of cultural proficiency and strives to meet it.
• Responds to UCAN staff service providers and other stakeholders in a timely manner and ensures follow up to adequately address their need.
• Performs other related tasks as required or assigned.

Education/Job Experience/Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years’ documented success in grants management and solicitation, with documented evidence in success securing six-to-eight-figure annual and multi-year grants and contracts. 

Special Knowledge and Qualifications:

• Exceptional writing skills.  
• Demonstrated ability to describe complex themes in a concise manner.
• Strong verbal communication skills. 
• Ability to interpret budgets and organization financial statements.
• Full-to-expert proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word.
• High-level motivation and ability to work independently.
• A strong understanding of human services and not-for-profit agencies.
• Ability to network comfortably with government partners at all levels.
• Understanding and appreciation of UCAN’s mission.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to handle multiple tasks at one time.
• Is open and respectful of cultural and socioeconomic characteristics of clients and is willing and competent to work with a diverse client population.
• Working knowledge of the child welfare system.
• Car and valid Illinois driver’s license and insurance required.