Civil Society & Grants Specialist

CIVIL SOCIETY AND GRANTS SPECIALIST   Management Systems International (MSI) is recruiting a Civil Society and Grants Specialist to join the Promoting Active Citizen Engagement (PACE) program in Beirut. Launched in October 2011, PACE is a three-year program funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The overall objective of the program is to strengthen civil society capacity to act as a catalyst for change through civic participation and advocacy. PACE partners with civil society organizations around the country through civic engagement, media, capacity building, and social entrepreneurship grants, training, and technical assistance.   GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY The Civil Society and Grants Specialist will provide management oversight of a portfolio of small grants, primarily in the social entrepreneurship sector, as well as support overall grants and procurement administration. The full-time position is of a short-term nature, ending in September 2014. The successful candidate is expected to start by late March 2014.   ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Oversee grant activities implemented by PACE partners to ensure the successful achievement of project deliverables and target results Provide overall guidance and support to PACE partners throughout the grant cycle Review grantee reports, assess progress toward meeting grant objectives, and suggest adjustments to implementation plans as needed to achieve results Conduct regular site visits and attend grantee-sponsored events and activities Ensure compliance with grant agreements and adherence to MSI and USAID rules, regulations and procedures Assist with grant administration and procurement tasks in coordination with the Grants Manager, including maintenance of grant files and grant trackers Help manage the grant closeout process, ensuring all documentation requirements are fulfilled Contribute to assessing and analyzing lessons learned to inform possible follow-on programs Monitor and report on grant activities within assigned portfolio, maintaining continuous communications with grantees to remain up-to-date on their activities, progress, and plans REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in social sciences or a related field Three to five years of experience in project administration/management Knowledge of the civil society and social entrepreneurship sectors in Lebanon Strong teamwork and organizational skills, with attention to detail Proven ability to learn quickly and to work with minimal supervision Demonstrated flexibility and initiative in planning and problem solving Fluency in Arabic and English required Familiarity with USAID regulations preferred