The Director of Education Grants leads NGS efforts to identify and support innovative ideas in education that fulfill our mission, with a special focus on classroom teachers. The Director develops strategic priorities for education grants that are embedded within the three lenses (Wildlife, Our Changing Planet, and The Human Journey) and also for education grants that respond to education-specific RFPs. Using the Learning Framework as a guide, the director defines goals and impact measures and oversees the awarding of grant funds strategically to support our education mission and the mission of the National Geographic Society. The Director reports to VP Grants (Grants Program) with dotted line to Education and sits on Education’s management team as a member of the team.
- Design and evaluate a multi-faceted strategy for grant-making and recruitment in education at National Geographic, for stand-alone grants and for grants that also fall under the three lenses. Direct the development of grant guidelines, RFPs, requirements and responsibilities, including development of, and reporting on, key metrics, deliverables, and outcomes. Oversee and manage a growing Education grants portfolio and ensure that the portfolio: includes a`broad and diverse set of topics; has a balance of constituency groups; meets diversity and inclusion targets; and reflects Society priorities. (30%)
- Supervise the education grants staff, manage relevant grants Executive Committee and Reviewer Circle members, assist in application processing as needed, and make final decisions on application movement through the grants process. (20%)
- Work directly with NGS Marketing & Engagement Team, as well as other opportunities, on an aggressive recruitment campaign. Recruit new talent to receive NGS education grants through professional conferences, meetings, and site visits. Provide advice and technical support to education grants applicants and to education grantees as they pursue their projects. Identify, nominate, and recruit leaders in education to be a part of evolving grant review committee. (30%)
- Represent the Education constituency both internally and externally, seeking out and identifying new, diverse, exciting people in key areas of NG interest. Proactively seek leads for fundraising, working closely with the NGS Partnerships team. (20%)
Minimum Years and Type of Experience
- 10+ years of experience in education, curriculum design, geography or similar and at least 3+ years of management experience. Experience managing grant programs a plus.
Knowledge and Skills Required
- Strategic thinker with a strong sense of follow through.
- Excellent networking skills and cross-functional collaboration.
- Superior interpersonal skills at all levels, including people-management, leadership and both written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage numerous projects and work streams from planning through to delivery.
- Deep understanding of education innovation, education systems, and learning theory.