Grant Operations Director: Strategy, Data & Grants

Duke Clinical Research Institute; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 64,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Duke University invites applications for the role of Director of Grant Operations in Durham, NC. You will lead complex grant programs, design operational systems, ensure sponsor compliance, and drive data-informed decision making.

You will oversee budgets, contractor relationships, and communications, shaping program strategy and impact across Duke Divinity School initiatives. A master’s degree may substitute for experience, with strong leadership preferred.

Qualifications

• Work requires a general business background, generally equivalent to a bachelor's degree in a business-related field.
• Work requires 4 years of related business or administrative experience; a master’s degree may substitute for 2 years of experience.
• Strong preference for applicants with supervision of staff and contractors.
• Strong preference for applicants with supervision of staff and contractors.OR ANY OTHER EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Responsibilities

• Lead Grant Program Operations: manage multiple grant programs from launch through completion.
• Design, implement, and improve database structures and processes supporting grant delivery.
• Ensure compliance with university policies and sponsor requirements.
• Prepare financial, operational, and programmatic reports for sponsors and stakeholders.
• Support Grant Review and Funding Processes: analyze RFPs, coordinate reviews, and develop funding recommendations.
• Monitor grant activities and drive continuous program improvement.
• Manage Contractor and Stakeholder Relationships: recruit, onboard, train, supervise contractors; manage conflicts of interest.
• Build relationships with peer organizations and external partners.
• Leverage Data for Decision-Making: analyze program data, identify trends, compare with research.
• Oversee Financial and Budget Administration: develop budgets, monitor expenditures, prepare reports.
• Provide Leadership and Team Support: supervise staff, foster collaboration and development.
• Advance Communications and Outreach: promote programs, support marketing strategies, represent Duke externally.

Skills

Project and program management

Financial management

Data analysis

Operational decision making

Grant administration

Strategic planning

Relationship building

Communication skills

Leadership

Change management

Education

Bachelor's degree in business-related field

Master's degree substituted for 2 years of experience

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Database management systems (e.g., Airtable)

SAP or comparable ERP systems

Data tracking and reporting tools

Job description

Duke University invites applications for the role of Director of Grant Operations in Durham, NC. You will lead complex grant programs, design operational systems, ensure sponsor compliance, and drive data-informed decision making.

You will oversee budgets, contractor relationships, and communications, shaping program strategy and impact across Duke Divinity School initiatives. A master’s degree may substitute for experience, with strong leadership preferred.