Position Overview

The Ferguson Group (TFG) is a bipartisan government relations consulting firm headquartered in Washington, DC, that represents the largest number of local governments of any firm in Washington. We are searching for a knowledgeable and experienced Grants Principal who is interested in working with a fast-paced, dynamic team to manage clients, create funding strategies and develop competitive grants funding proposals that support critical projects in communities across the country. This position can be based in Washington D.C. or remotely throughout the United States.

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Grants Principal to join the TFG Grants Team as a vital contributor to the grant writing and administration process. The ideal candidate will be a collaborative team player with a fervent dedication to TFG’s mission. With a proactive approach and unwavering attention to detail, the Grants Principal will cultivate robust relationships with clients and funding entities, leveraging their expertise to secure resources essential for driving our clients’ goals and needs forward. Join us as we chart a path toward impactful change, where strategic grant acquisition and meticulous project management converge to realize our vision to help build stronger communities.

Responsibilities

Overall, the Grants Principal will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive grant strategies, managing grant programs, and building relationships with clients and funding agencies. This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a proven track record of successful grant acquisition and client management. The primary responsibility of the Grant Principal will revolve around Client Management, with potential additional tasks assigned as necessary, including those pertaining to project management. Responsibilities of the Grants Principal will include, but are not limited to, the following:

Client Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, fostering positive and productive relationships.
• Outline the scope of services and establish expectations utilizing project management principles to plan, organize, and execute grant-related initiatives effectively.
• Facilitate the smooth transition of new clients into the organization and ensure that all contractual obligations are clearly understood by both parties.
• Develop strategies to maintain and grow the relationship with existing clients. Address any concerns or issues promptly to ensure client satisfaction.
• Communicate regularly with clients to provide updates on grant progress, address inquiries, and solicit feedback.
• Collaborate with clients to identify funding priorities, explore potential grant opportunities, and develop tailored grant applications.
• Ensure timely and accurate response to client inquiries, requests for information, and reporting requirements.
• Manage communications between internal client team of colleagues to ensure all client work deadlines are met and work advances on schedule.

Grant Strategy and Planning

• Develop and execute a strategic plan for client grant research, project prioritization and readiness, and application process, aligning with client goals, and priorities.
• Identify funding opportunities and potential grant sources, conducting research to assess strategic fit and eligibility criteria.
• Lead the development of high-quality grant applications on behalf of clients, working closely with internal project managers, grant researchers, and grant writers as well as external consultants.
• Provide guidance and support to staff involved in grant application development, ensuring alignment with grant guidelines and strategic objectives.

• Oversee the review and editing process for grant applications to ensure accuracy, clarity, and persuasiveness.
• Monitor grant timelines and deadlines, ensuring timely submission of applications and reports.
• Establish systems and processes for tracking client goals, initiatives, grant applications, milestones, and outcomes.

Relationship Building and Stakeholder Engagement

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with clients as well as funding agencies.
• Represent TFG at meetings, conferences, and networking events to promote awareness of grant opportunities and funding priorities.
• Collaborate with external partners and collaborators to identify potential funding opportunities and develop joint grant proposals.

Capacity Building and Training

• Provide training and technical assistance to staff on grant-related topics, such as grant writing, grant research, compliance, and reporting.
• Stay abreast of best practices, trends, and developments in grant funding and management, sharing knowledge and resources with staff, clients, and strategic partners.
• Identify opportunities for additional services that meet client needs.
• Coordinate with the sales team to offer new services or upgrades to existing services.

Account Management

• Ensure that all contracts are up to date and both parties are adhering to the agreed terms.
• Oversee or coordinate the billing process, ensuring that all charges are accurate and transparent.
• Track metrics related to client engagement, satisfaction, and revenue generation.
• Evaluate the profitability and sustainability of accounts.
• Develop strategies for optimizing the client portfolio.
• Gather and analyze feedback for service improvement.

Qualifications

• Foundation in political science, public policy, public administration, economics, English, history, environmental sciences, urban planning, or related fields. A Bachelor's degree in one of these disciplines is required, with a preference for candidates pursuing or holding an advanced degree (MA, MPA, MPP, PhD, or equivalent).
• Experience working with local governments, public agencies, or special districts is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in grant writing, grant management, fundraising, or a related field, with demonstrated success in securing and managing grants.
• Proven experience in grant writing, grant management, project management, and client management.
• A deep understanding of grant funding processes, regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated success in managing the entire grant lifecycle.
• Extensive experience uploading and submitting grants, including all required forms and background documents, through grants.gov and other federal platforms.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey complex information clearly and persuasively.
• Superior attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple clients, projects, and deadlines simultaneously.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, with a preference for experience in grant management and/or project management software.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think strategically and adapt to changing priorities.
• Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Must be available to work full time.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and learning, with a proactive approach to identifying and implementing best practices in client management.
• Commitment to TFG’s mission, values, and passion of helping to build stronger communities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with work experience and qualifications.
• Robust benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Professional development opportunities to enhance skills and advance career growth.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment dedicated to making a positive impact in the community.
• Ample remote working opportunities.

How to Apply

TFG requires all applicants to submit a policy-related writing sample or an excerpt from a previously submitted successful grant application. Sample not to exceed two pages. If you are interested in TFG’s Grants Principal position, please send your (1) resume (2) cover letter and (3) writing sample to recruiter@tfgnet.com. The subject line of your email should contain the words "Application - Grants Principal."

EOE/M/F/V/H