THE PROJECT

Plan International’s Conservation and Sustainable Management of Coastal and Marine Ecosystems (COSME) project aims to significantly scale up Plan International Kenya’s current women-led, climate-resilient livelihoods and coastal management project in Kwale and Kilifi counties. It takes an ecosystems-based approach in partnership with Jane Goodall Institute (JGI) Canada, COSME will also capitalize on opportunities for South-South learning by working between Kenya/Tanzania cross-border communities within the same marine coastal and coastal forest eco-regions. The project will be instrumental in driving Nature Based Solutions (NbS) for climate adaptation and biodiversity conservation in the selected eco-regions: i) mangrove restoration and conservation; ii) sustainable seaweed farming; and iii) locally-led forest management and conservation. Small-scale conservation agriculture practices will also be deployed to build the resilience of women in selected communities.  The ultimate project outcome is improved climate-resilient, equitable economies within communities relying on coastal and marine ecosystems.

THE ROLE

The Grants Officer is responsible for the assessment and compliance monitoring of grants systems, processes, partnerships; Analysis of budgets and expenditures of the COSME project in Kwale and Kilifi Program Units- Coastal Hub.
This role will work with the COSME Senior Project Manager, the larger project team and both internal and external stakeholders. The position will be responsible for ensuring adherence to all donor compliance issues affecting the COSME project. The position holder will play a critical role to ensure the project team understand the grant requirements for effective delivery of the project.

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE, SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

Qualifications/ experience essential:

• Bachelor’s Degree in either business, social sciences or international development
• At least CPA 2 or other equivalent professional qualification in accounting
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in grants management or a similar role in INGO
• Experience in award portfolio management and knowledge of major donors’ (USAID, DFID, Global Affairs Canada, EU, etc.) compliance requirements
• Experience in supporting program teams
• Problem solving skills to identify and lead the resolution of issues
• Strong communication (written and spoken), and interpersonal skills

Qualifications/ experience desirable: 

• Previous experience in SAP ERP or any recognised grants management system
• Attention to detail and analytical skills
• Planning, management and coordination skills
• Experience in working with multicultural teams
• Facilitation and training skills
• Administration and effective communication skills
• Ability to work and interact with others at all levels

Languages required

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.