Managing Director of Grant Finance (25-26)
IDEA Public Schools is seeking a Managing Director of Grants to join our growing Business Office team. The Managing Director of Grants will report to the Vice President of Treasury and Grants. This position will be responsible for ensuring compliance with all aspects of federal, state, and local grants. The Managing Director of Grants will also evaluate major programs and staff composition annually to identify potential cost savings and support leaders during planning.
As a member of the National team, you will support all 13 regions across 15 states to achieve annual operating income goals while remaining good stewards of public funds and donations. The Managing Director of Grants will be the subject matter expert on federal, state, and local financial laws, program guidelines, policies, and procedures. Strong leadership and interpersonal skills are necessary to build partnerships, lead people, and provide clear direction regarding grant requirements.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Directly manage Director of Grants, Director of Philanthropic Grants, Director of Compliance, Director of Public Competitive Grants, and Grants Accountants x 2.
Location:
This is a full-time remote position based in Texas, with preference for candidates in Austin, El Paso, Houston, Permian Basin (Midland/Odessa), Rio Grande Valley, San Antonio, and Tarrant County (Fort Worth), or those willing to relocate.
Up to 30% travel during peak periods.
What You’ll Do – Accountabilities
- Lead training to ensure leaders understand grant compliance and their responsibilities as fiduciaries; support them in connecting their work to grant rules and regulations.
- Oversee development and execution of program plans, implementation, and budget monitoring in accordance with policies across all IDEA entities.
- Develop and deliver quarterly training for Business Office leaders on federal and philanthropic grants, risk areas, and KPIs.
- Guide the team through the drawdown process with regular training and meetings on grant guidelines.
- Review and approve all grant reimbursements monthly for accuracy, allowability, and documentation compliance.
- Ensure proper documentation is maintained and uploaded prior to submitting drawdowns to meet high-risk requirements.
- Prepare internal reports for directors and the Business Office, coordinating with cross-functional stakeholders.
Additional Duties and Responsibilities:
- Present grant updates to the Board, Superintendent, and Committees monthly.
- Ensure timely compliance with grant payroll requirements.
- Develop and maintain internal controls and processes for backup documentation.
- Support the VP in developing and revising finance policies.
- Create measurable goals for Directors to promote growth and effectiveness.
- Collaborate with Internal Audit and Finance Teams to support audits and implement corrective actions.
- Coordinate with Schools Team to ensure district and campus plans meet grant requirements.
- Implement deadlines, milestones, and benchmarks for financial teams.
- Report on grants to ensure compliance with ESSA, EDGAR, and DOE standards.
- Review and revise Corrective Action Plans for high-risk compliance.
Knowledge and Skills – Competencies
- Make Sound Decisions: Guide team decision-making, fostering collaboration and considering diverse perspectives.
- Manage Work and Teams: Oversee team performance, establish strategic plans, and ensure targets are met.
- Grow Self and Others: Promote professional growth through learning opportunities and resource provision.
- Build Trust and Psychological Safety: Foster open communication and address conflicts proactively.
- Communicate Deliberately: Express ideas clearly, listen actively, and tailor messages for effective relationships.
Additional Skills:
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel, and ERP Software.
- Experience with Tyler Munis, Skyward, Oracle, or similar financial systems.
Required Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration, or economics.
- 7+ years in Accounting, Finance, Grants, with federal and state program focus.
- 5+ years familiarity with EDGAR regulations.
Preferred Experience:
- Master’s degree in relevant fields.
- 5-7 years supervisory experience.
Physical Requirements:
This is a sedentary role.
What We Offer:
Salary range: $119,000 - $142,800, commensurate with experience. Performance pay and comprehensive benefits included. More info at IDEA Benefits.
Relocation stipend may be available.
Application Process:
Apply online via Jobvite. Early applications encouraged. Review ongoing until filled.
Learn More About IDEA:
Our Core Values promote connection, integrity, respect, and belonging. Details at Our Core Values.