GRANTS MANAGER

Grants Manager Jobs in Lusaka – WWF Zambia Country Office

WWF Zambia Country Office invites qualified professionals to apply for the position of Grants Manager based in Lusaka, Zambia. This role is a contract position focused on strengthening the grants management function to ensure compliance, financial oversight, and effective coordination of donor-funded projects. If you are seeking grants manager jobs in Lusaka with a reputable international conservation organization, this opportunity offers a dynamic and impactful environment.

About WWF Zambia

Established in 1962, WWF Zambia is part of a global network dedicated to conserving natural environments and promoting sustainable use of natural resources. The organization works across key areas including Biodiversity, Food Systems and Green Economy, and Climate Action. WWF Zambia operates in critical landscapes such as the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, the Kafue System, and the Upper Zambezi, supporting biodiversity, livelihoods, and climate resilience through science-driven advocacy and partnerships.

Role Overview: Grants Manager

The Grants Manager will lead the grants management lifecycle, ensuring all donor-funded projects comply with donor regulations, WWF policies, contractual obligations, and statutory requirements. This role involves strategic leadership in proposal development, contracting, budget review, monitoring, reporting, audits, and close-out. The Grants Manager will coordinate closely with Programme, Finance, Procurement, PMEAL, People & Culture, and partner organizations to facilitate timely and compliant project delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the entire grants management function, including tracking, monitoring, and reporting.
• Ensure compliance with donor regulations, WWF standards, and local statutory requirements through regular reviews and audits.
• Support proposal development by reviewing budgets and ensuring alignment with donor compliance and technical narratives.
• Oversee financial monitoring, budget utilization, and donor reporting in collaboration with finance and project teams.
• Manage partner and sub-grantee due diligence, compliance, and capacity strengthening.
• Develop and improve grants management systems, SOPs, and workflows to enhance operational efficiency.
• Supervise and build capacity within the grants team, fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration.
• Represent WWF Zambia in donor meetings, audits, and internal coordination forums.

Qualifications and Experience

• ACCA, CIMA, or a Master’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Project Management, Development Studies, or related fields.
• Professional certification in grants management, project management, compliance, or accounting is advantageous.
• 7 to 10 years of relevant experience in grants management, donor compliance, project administration, or financial management.
• At least 3 years in a supervisory or management capacity.
• Experience managing grants from institutional donors such as USAID, EU, GCF, GEF, FCDO, SIDA, KfW, UN agencies, and private foundations.
• Strong knowledge of donor regulations and compliance frameworks, preferably within NGO or international development contexts.

Required Competencies

Technical Skills:

• Grants management and donor compliance
• Budgeting and financial analysis
• Contract and agreement review
• Audit coordination and risk management
• Project cycle management
• Report writing and documentation
• Data analysis and grants tracking
• Policy interpretation and implementation

Behavioral Skills:

• Strategic thinking and leadership
• Strong coordination and communication
• Attention to detail and problem solving
• High ethical standards and integrity
• Planning and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure

Working Relationships

The Grants Manager will collaborate internally with the Country Director, Operations Director, Conservation Director, Finance, PMEAL, Procurement, People & Culture units, Landscape Managers, and Project Leads. Externally, the role engages with donors, government agencies, implementing partners, auditors, consultants, and WWF network offices.

Application Process for Grants Manager Jobs in Lusaka

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, detailed CV with at least three referees (including current or previous employers), and certified copies of academic and professional qualifications via email to wwfcareers@wwfzam.org. Please indicate the position title in the subject line. Applications must be received by 13 July 2026, 18:00 hrs. Late submissions will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

About the Organization’s Values

WWF Zambia embraces its core values of Courage, Integrity, Respect, and Collaboration. Candidates are expected to align with these principles, which guide the organization’s work and culture.