Manager – Sponsored Programs Group

Apr 4, 2023

Are you interested in working in a collaborative environment with like-minded professionals dedicated to the science of water, public health, and the environment? If so, advance the science of water by joining The Water Research Foundation (WRF) team. WRF is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. The convergence of research (environmental, engineering, and social) and new approaches make it an exciting time to be at WRF.

WRF is developing a new work group who will be responsible for centralizing the administration of sponsored programs, including federal, state, and locally funded programs as well as funds received from philanthropic sources. The Manager of the Sponsored Programs Group (SPG) will play an instrumental role in the next stage of WRF’s growth and corporate development. This position initiates, manages and has oversight of pre- and post-award activities related to WRF’s sponsored programs and expansion of the opportunity pipeline—including potential projects with types of governments as well as not-for-profit entities and commercial funders. The individual selected will be responsible for leading a proposed team of three full time equivalents (FTEs), coordinating with teaming partners and funders, overseeing certain financial reporting and financial analysis tasks, and assisting WRF’s Leadership Team with development and implementation of strategic goals.

Essential Job Functions

  • Maintains oversight and direct management of the Sponsored Programs Group, including subrecipient financial statement reviews, provision of audit support, negotiating contracts and subaward agreements, providing technical support, conducting grant and financial reporting, and other matters.
  • Reviews the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA).
  • Identifies, cultivates, and leads development of strategic relationships and new research opportunities jointly with other members of the Leadership Team.
  • Supports the Leadership Team responsible for organizational strategy and operational success.
  • Reviews sponsored program and project proposals prior to submission to funders and/or pass-through entities.
  • Oversees maintenance of the Compliance Program and the Quality Management Plan.
  • Submits proposals for sponsored programs to funders and/or pass-through entities.
  • Monitors and reports on the status of SPG goals and associated progress to the Chief Research Officer.
  • Manages the development, maintenance, and implementation of Sponsored Programs policies and procedures.
  • Manages the annual risk assessment and monitoring plan.
  • Coordinates correction action plans and reports status to the Leadership Team.
  • Develops annual staff milestones for SPG members.
  • Assists with the new hire onboarding process as relates to SPG activities.
  • Completes opportunity forecasts and oversees searches for new research and business opportunities.
  • Remains current of trends and developments regarding policies, procedures, and regulations related to sponsored programs.
  • Represents WRF in meetings, presentations, and other interactions with federal, state, and local government agencies.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, public affairs, or a related field.
  • 10 years of relevant experience working with federally funded programs.
  • 5 years of experience managing teams, including designing and delivering sponsored program and grant training.
  • Working knowledge of 2 CFR Part 200 and/or the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR).
  • Highly organized, detailed oriented and able to acquire and apply knowledge quickly.
  • Strong analytical and quantitative skills.
  • Must be skilled at building and maintaining relationships and developing people.
  • Ability to exercise tact, discretion and judgment in sensitive and confidential matters.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Possession of one or more of the following credentials: Certified Grants Management Specialist or Certified Public Accountant.
  • Advanced degree in business administration, public affairs, or public administration.
  • Completion of a certificate program in grants management.

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in finance, accounting, or related field.

WRF Benefits

  • A casual, professional, and collaborative environment
  • Competitive salary
  • An outstanding benefit package including:
    • Health, dental, and vision plans
    • Company paid life insurance along with supplemental options
    • Ancillary benefit programs
    • 401(k) plan with company match
    • Paid sick and vacation time
    • Flexible work arrangement and scheduling to enhance work/life balance
    • Hybrid work environment

To Apply

Use the following form forms.waterrf.org/223203979838063 to submit your cover letter/salary range expectations and resume.

WRF is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

No immigration or relocation assistance is available for this position.