Director of Grant Operations

About the role

Duke University, created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke, is one of America’s leading research universities located in Durham, North Carolina, in the heart of the Research Triangle. It has over 15,000 students across ten undergraduate, graduate and professional schools and about 40,000 employees, making it the third largest private employer in North Carolina, with international programs in more than 150 countries. As the Director of Grant Operations, you'll play a pivotal role in advancing innovative grant-funded initiatives that strengthen Christian institutions that support congregations, working within a collaborative team at the Forum for Congregational Life at Duke Divinity School. You will help steward meaningful programs, build process and information systems to support the programs, and ensure resources are effectively managed to maximize impact. This position reports to the Executive Director for Grants and Services and provides strategic administrative leadership and operational management for a complex portfolio of grant-funded programs. The role oversees project implementation, contractor engagement, financial administration, reporting, communications coordination, and database operations. This position is fully funded by a sponsored program currently supported through December 31, 2028, as part of a Lilly Endowment-funded intermediary organization within Duke Divinity School.

Responsibilities

• Lead Grant Program Operations: Manage the administration of multiple grant programs and pilot initiatives from launch through completion; design, implement, and improve database information structure and other operational processes that support successful grant program delivery; ensure compliance with Duke University policies and sponsor requirements; prepare and coordinate financial, operational, and programmatic reports for sponsors and stakeholders.
• Support Grant Review and Funding Processes: Analyze grant requests for proposals (RFPs) and applications for alignment with program goals and organizational policy; coordinate review and adjudication processes; develop recommendations regarding grant funding decisions; monitor grant activities and support continuous program improvement.
• Manage Contractor and Stakeholder Relationships: Recruit, onboard, train, and supervise contractors who support events, proposal reviews, and program evaluations; ensure appropriate conflict-of-interest management practices are maintained; evaluate contractor performance and recommend future engagement opportunities; build collaborative relationships with peer organizations and external partners.
• Leverage Data for Decision-Making: Analyze application and program data to identify trends, opportunities, and emerging needs; compare findings against available research and best practices; develop reports and recommendations that inform strategic decision-making.
• Oversee Financial and Budget Administration: Develop budgets, financial projections, and fiscal plans; monitor expenditures and ensure responsible stewardship of program resources; prepare financial reports and support compliance with university and sponsor requirements; assist with grant proposal development, budget preparation, and financial monitoring.
• Provide Leadership and Team Support: Coordinate and supervise assigned staff and contractors; foster