Managing Director of Grants
Mission:
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 the planning process.
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 effectively build partnerships, lead teams, and provide clear guidance on 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 given to candidates residing in Austin, El Paso, Houston, Permian Basin (Midland/Odessa), Rio Grande Valley, San Antonio, Tarrant County (Fort Worth), or those willing to relocate.
Travel Expectations:
Up to 30% during peak periods.
What You’ll Do – Accountabilities
Essential Duties:
- Lead training to ensure national, regional, and campus leaders understand grant compliance and their fiduciary responsibilities; 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 applicable policies across all IDEA Public Schools entities.
- Develop and deliver quarterly training for Business Office leaders on federal and philanthropic grants, highlighting risks and KPIs.
- Guide the team through the drawdown process with regular training and meetings on grant guidelines.
- Review and approve monthly grant reimbursements for accuracy, allowability, and documentation compliance.
- Ensure proper documentation of grants and upload before submitting drawdowns to meet high-risk requirements.
- Prepare periodic internal reports for directors and the Business Office, requiring coordination with cross-functional stakeholders and strong communication skills.
Additional Duties and Responsibilities:
- Present grant updates to the Board of Directors, Superintendent, and committees monthly for Texas and IPS entities.
- Ensure timely grant payroll compliance, including position allowability, salary approval, and documentation.
- Develop and maintain internal controls, procedures, and backup processes.
- Support VP of Treasury and Grants in revising finance policies.
- Set measurable goals for Directors to promote growth and effectiveness.
- Coordinate with Internal Audit and Finance Teams to support audits, communicate findings, and implement corrective actions.
- Collaborate with Schools Team leaders to develop robust, compliant district and campus plans.
- Implement deadlines, milestones, and benchmarks across financial teams.
- Manage grant development, implementation, and reporting to ensure compliance with ESSA, EDGAR, and DOE standards.
- Review and update Corrective Action Plans to ensure progress in high-risk areas.
Knowledge and Skills – Competencies
- Make Sound Decisions: Foster collaborative decision-making considering diverse perspectives.
- Manage Work and Teams: Establish mechanisms, strategic plans, and systems for team performance.
- Grow Self and Others: Promote professional growth and resource availability.
- Build Trust and Psychological Safety: Encourage 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 (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, or Grants, focusing on Federal and State Programs.
- 5+ years of experience with EDGAR regulations.
Preferred Experience:
- Master’s degree in relevant fields.
- 5-7 years supervisory experience in similar roles.
Physical Requirements:
What We Offer:
Salary ranges from $119,000 to $142,800, commensurate with experience, plus performance pay. Benefits include health plans, insurance, parental benefits, flexible spending, vacation, bonuses, professional development, and a 403(b) plan. More info at IDEA Benefits.
*Possible relocation stipend available.
Application Process:
Apply online via Jobvite. Applications are reviewed continuously until filled. Early applications encouraged.
Learn More About IDEA
Our Culture promotes integrity, respect, and belonging. Learn more at Core Values.