The Director, Human Journey Grants is responsible for developing the strategic priorities, planning new initiatives, and adaptively managing the overall mission and metrics of the human journey grants portfolio.
The objective of the grants program is to attract and support exceptional innovators and leaders, generate new knowledge to deliver on the vision of the Society and bring a globally diverse group of grantees into the NGS Explorer community. The Human Journey thematic lens focuses on learning more about who we are and what our future will be on this planet. It supports projects in a range of fields that are helping us understand the origins and development of our species; how we modified and adapted to diverse landscapes across the globe; the evolution of cultures and societies; and the current status of and trends in our cultural, linguistic, and genetic diversity. Recognizing that human society is currently out of balance with the natural world, we also seek projects that propose solutions to mitigate this imbalance.
With input from his/her team, the Director identifies the thematic foci for funding (e.g., Request for Proposal (RFP)) and the distribution of funds among them. In collaboration with the Explorer Programs, Operating Programs, and International teams, the Director will strategically collaborate in the selection of explorers, projects, and programs -- including the activities, outputs, outcomes, and goals -- for those that align within the current strategic framework of the Human Journey thematic lens. The Director manages the grants committee and program staff within his/her thematic lens, setting priorities for recruitment, staff allocation, and application processes. The Director is expected to be intimately familiar with, and provide expert consultation on, current trends in the science, conservation, education, and storytelling of Human Journey. The Director is a public representative for the Human Journey lens on behalf of National Geographic. The position reports to the Vice President of Grants.
- Design and evaluate a multi-faceted strategy for grant-making and recruitment within the lens, including development of key metrics, deliverables, and outcomes, and ensuring that grant activities reflect Society goals. Oversee and manage a growing Human Journey grants portfolio. Ensure that the portfolio: 1) includes a broad and diverse set of topics; has a balance of constituency groups; meets diversity and inclusion targets; and reflects Society priorities. (40%)
- Manage and mentor a high functioning team of grants staff, and manage relevant committee members within the lens. Develop strong working relationships with other departments to create a dynamic network that cultivates innovative thinking and team development. (20%)
- Complete internal reviews on all Explorer and Request for Proposal (RFP) applications, and make recommendations to the CRE Executive Committee. (15%)
- Works closely with the VP of Operating Programs and the program leads in the development and promotion of projects, specifically the strategic initiatives Being Human and Reducing the Human Footprint. (10%)
- Represent the lens both internally and externally, including fundraising and recruitment efforts, seeking out and identifying new, diverse, exciting people in key areas of NG interest. In collaboration with the VP Grants, proactively seek leads for fundraising, working closely with the NGS Partnerships team. (10%)
- Serve as an advisor and advocate for the science, conservation, education, and storytelling supported by the lens to both NGS and NGP. Identify relevant staff to serve as expert consultants to NGP as necessary or requested. (5%)
- 8+ years of experience in science and grant making.
- 3+ years of management experience required.
Knowledge and Skill Requirements
- Subject matter expert in at least one discipline within his/her lens, with familiarity of other disciplines in that lens. 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. Knowledge of and experience in NGS and NGP businesses. Ability to develop and evaluate numerous projects and work streams from planning through to delivery