Managing Director of Grant Finance (25-26)

IDEA Public Schools; Fort Worth (TX); Remote; USD 119,000 - 143,000; Full time

Job summary

IDEA Public Schools is seeking a Managing Director of Grants to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local grants. This full-time remote position involves leading a team, managing grant compliance, and supporting financial planning across multiple regions. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in grants and finance, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to fostering collaboration and trust within teams. Competitive salary and benefits are offered.

Benefits

Health Plans

Insurance

Parental Leave

Flexible Spending

Vacation

Bonuses

Professional Development

403(b) Plan

Relocation Stipends

Qualifications

• 7+ years in accounting, finance, or grants, including federal/state programs.
• 5+ years with EDGAR regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead training on grant compliance for national, regional, and campus leaders.
• Oversee development, implementation, and monitoring of program plans and budgets.
• Review and approve grant reimbursements monthly for accuracy and compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Interpersonal Skills

Collaboration

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in accounting

Master’s degree

Job description

Managing Director of Grants

IDEA Public Schools is seeking a Managing Director of Grants to join our growing Business Office team. The Managing Director will report to the Vice President of Treasury and Grants and will be responsible for ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local grants. This role involves evaluating major programs and staff annually to identify cost-saving opportunities and supporting leadership during planning.

As part of the national team, you will support 13 regions across 15 states to meet annual income goals while stewarding public funds and donations. The ideal candidate will be the subject matter expert on financial laws, program guidelines, policies, and procedures related to grants. Strong leadership and interpersonal skills are essential for building partnerships, leading teams, and clarifying grant requirements.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Manage Directors of Grants, Philanthropic Grants, Compliance, Public Competitive Grants, and Grants Accountants.

Location & Travel

This is a full-time remote position based in Texas, preferably in Austin, El Paso, Houston, Permian Basin, Rio Grande Valley, San Antonio, or Tarrant County, or candidates willing to relocate. Travel may be up to 30% during peak periods.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead training on grant compliance for national, regional, and campus leaders.
• Oversee development, implementation, and monitoring of program plans and budgets.
• Deliver quarterly training on federal and philanthropic grants, highlighting risks and KPIs.
• Guide the team through the drawdown process, ensuring compliance and proper documentation.
• Review and approve grant reimbursements monthly for accuracy and compliance.
• Maintain proper documentation for grant activities and submit monthly drawdowns.
• Prepare internal reports and coordinate with stakeholders.

Additional Duties

• Present grant updates to boards and committees.
• Ensure timely grant payroll compliance.
• Develop internal controls and support policy revisions.
• Set measurable goals for team development.
• Support internal audits and corrective actions.
• Collaborate with school teams on assessments and improvement plans.
• Manage grant development, reporting, and compliance with regulations.

Knowledge, Skills & Competencies

• Make sound decisions and foster collaboration.
• Manage work and lead teams effectively.
• Promote growth and professional development.
• Build trust and ensure psychological safety.
• Communicate clearly and empathetically.

Required & Preferred Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business, or economics (Required).
• 7+ years in accounting, finance, or grants, including federal/state programs (Required).
• 5+ years with EDGAR regulations (Required).
• Master’s degree and supervisory experience preferred.

Physical Requirements

This is a sedentary role.

What We Offer

Salary range: $119,000 - $142,800, commensurate with experience. Performance-based pay is available. Benefits include health plans, insurance, parental leave, flexible spending, vacation, bonuses, professional development, and a 403(b) plan. More details at IDEA Benefits. Relocation stipends may be available.

Application Process

Apply online via Jobvite. Applications are reviewed continuously until filled; early applications are encouraged.

Learn More About IDEA

Our Core Values promote connection, integrity, respect, and belonging. Learn more at Our Core Values.