Aga Khan Rural Support Programme Gilgit-Baltistan Jobs-2024
Aga Khan Rural Support Programme Gilgit-Baltistan seeks a Sr. Grants Officer. Apply by 10th Nov 2024 for this opportunity to make an impact.
The Aga Khan Rural Support Programme Gilgit-Baltistan (AKRSP) is a leading institution of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), established by the Aga Khan Foundation in 1982. With over four decades of experience, AKRSP has made significant strides in the socio-economic development of the Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral regions. Operating from its core office in Gilgit, AKRSP has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for the people in these communities by implementing various rural development programs that focus on education, healthcare, infrastructure, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. Through its initiatives, AKRSP has become a model for rural development in mountainous regions worldwide.
Currently, the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme Gilgit-Baltistan is seeking to fill the position of Senior Grants Officer at its Core Office in Gilgit. This position is crucial for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of AKRSP’s grant management processes, which are essential to supporting and expanding the organization’s impactful work in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. Here’s an in-depth look at the job purpose, responsibilities, and requirements for the Sr. Grants Officer position.
Job Purpose
The Senior Grants Officer plays an essential role in ensuring that AKRSP’s grants management processes are smooth, transparent, and compliant with donor requirements. This position will handle every aspect of the grant lifecycle, from application to reporting, budget tracking, and compliance. This role is critical in maintaining AKRSP's commitment to financial transparency and optimal fund utilization. The Senior Grants Officer will work closely with the grants manager, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), regional offices, and other partners to support AKRSP’s strategic objectives in the Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral regions.
Key Job Responsibilities
Financial Management and Compliance: The Sr. Grants Officer will support the grants manager and CFO in overseeing financial management, ensuring that the financial requirements for grant-funded projects are met efficiently. They will coordinate budget versus actual (BvA) reports, helping AKRSP track and manage funds effectively, and will work with regional offices and implementing partners to ensure that reported expenses comply with donor requirements.
Grant Reporting and Documentation: Timely preparation and submission of donor financial reports are essential to this role. The Senior Grants Officer will ensure reports are ready for review by the grants manager in a timely manner, adhering to donor guidelines. Documentation of expenses, project audits, and regular financial reporting are crucial components of this task.
Proposal Development and Budgeting: The role includes assisting in the preparation of grant proposals and budgeting processes, ensuring that each project is financially feasible and aligned with donor requirements. The Sr. Grants Officer will be responsible for maintaining an accurate track of grant agreements and ensuring the timely management of advances.
Guidelines and Compliance: One of the Sr. Grants Officer’s responsibilities is to prepare and disseminate guidelines for eligible costs, aligned with each partner agency’s compliance covenants. These guidelines help ensure that all stakeholders involved in grant-related activities understand the requirements, thereby avoiding financial discrepancies.
Grants Management Information System: Effective monitoring and reporting are crucial for AKRSP’s grants program. The Sr. Grants Officer will assist in implementing and updating a grants management information system, which will streamline tracking, reporting, and monitoring of grant-funded projects.
Recording and Reporting: This position requires the Sr. Grants Officer to record expenses related to other implementing partners in AKRSP’s books of accounts on a monthly or quarterly basis. This task ensures transparency in fund usage and supports accurate financial reporting.
Other Responsibilities: The Sr. Grants Officer may be assigned additional duties by the supervisor to support the smooth functioning of the grants department, which could involve cross-departmental coordination, financial analysis, and participation in strategy meetings.
Job Requirements
The Aga Khan Rural Support Programme Gilgit-Baltistan is looking for a candidate with the following qualifications and skills:
Education: A Master’s degree in finance, accounting, commerce, business management, or a relevant field is required. Candidates with qualifications such as CA/CMA-Inter, ACCA, or an equivalent background in financial management are preferred.
Experience: Applicants must have at least 2 years of relevant experience, ideally within an NGO or INGO environment. Experience with grants management, financial reporting, and donor compliance is highly desirable, especially in roles requiring budget tracking and financial transparency.
Technical Skills:
- Project Management: Proficiency in managing projects and coordinating across departments to achieve project goals.
- IT Proficiency: Knowledge of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and advanced Microsoft Excel skills are essential. Familiarity with tools like MS Power BI is an added advantage.
- Communication: Strong writing and communication skills, necessary for preparing reports and liaising with internal and external stakeholders.
- Adaptability and Problem-Solving: The Sr. Grants Officer must be adaptable, proactive, and able to meet tight deadlines while resolving any conflicts that may arise.
Preferred Candidates: Preference will be given to candidates residing in Gilgit-Baltistan to support the organization’s goal of promoting local employment and improving local capacities.
Why Work with AKRSP?
Working with the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme Gilgit-Baltistan offers unique benefits beyond a competitive salary. AKRSP is known for its inclusive, supportive work environment that encourages professional development. As an equal opportunity employer, AKRSP strongly encourages women to apply, actively promoting gender equity within its workforce. The organization also has a strict safeguarding policy for children and adults, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all.
By joining AKRSP, the Sr. Grants Officer will have the chance to make a meaningful impact on the communities in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, supporting projects that enhance education, economic growth, healthcare, and environmental sustainability in these remote regions. The position offers an excellent opportunity to work with a prestigious organization that values social responsibility and is committed to the sustainable development of some of Pakistan’s most underserved areas.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and cover letter to AKRSP by the 10th of November, 2024. Applicants should clearly state the position they are applying for in the subject line and be prepared for a professional background check as part of the selection process. This rigorous selection procedure reflects AKRSP’s commitment to transparency, professionalism, and organizational excellence.
Online Application : Click Here
Final Thoughts
The role of Sr. Grants Officer at the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme Gilgit-Baltistan is more than just a job; it’s a commitment to the development of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. As a part of AKRSP’s team, the Sr. Grants Officer will have the opportunity to contribute to transformative projects that promote sustainable development, foster community resilience, and enhance the quality of life for countless individuals. The position demands financial acumen, a proactive approach, and dedication to upholding the high standards that have made AKRSP a leader in rural development.
Through its diverse projects and collaborative environment, the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme Gilgit-Baltistan continues to make a lasting impact on rural communities, supporting the Aga Khan Development Network’s mission of social and economic development in under-resourced areas. Joining AKRSP as a Sr. Grants Officer is an opportunity to become part of this impactful journey, contributing to meaningful change and advancing the future of Gilgit-Baltistan.
