ProtectDefenders.eu is looking to recruit a Sub-Grant and Compliance Officer.
ProtectDefenders.eu, the EU Human Rights Defenders mechanism, is seeking a dynamic and committed Sub-Grant and Compliance Officer to support our mission in defending human rights defenders at risk worldwide.
TERMS OF REFERENCE
Job Title: Sub-Grants and Compliance Officer
Department: The Finance and Operations Department consists of three key departments: Finance, Human Resources and Operations.
Reports To: Head of Finance and Operations
Job Summary:
Based at the Secretariat’s office in Brussels and reporting to the Head of Finance and Operations, the sub-grant and compliance officer supports the dynamic and energetic team of the Secretariat by providing financial management support to the grants team and supporting internal control and compliance reviews. As part of the Finance and Operations team, the incumbent might be asked to support the team as back-up and as requested. A non-exhaustive list of responsibilities is outlined below:
Key Responsibilities:
1. Sub-award Management
• Coordinate the financial aspects of the Secretariat grants making programs including preparing and revising budgets, drafting and reviewing of grant agreements, checking grantees’ reports, preparing debit notes, as well drafting and revising call for proposals/guidelines for any activity related to the Secretariat grants making programs;
• Support the process for disbursement of grants funds;
• Ensure that financial management systems and records are effective and robust;
• Oversee grant reports in adherence with donor requirements and time-lines, and timely submission of reports;
• Monitor the level of expenditures of the Secretariat’s budget and prepare the forecast, in close coordination with the Head of Finance and Operations.
2. Capacity Building & general support
• Support grantees to clarify donor financial rules;
• Undertake support visits to grantees or conduct online trainings and capacity strengthening activities;
• Ensure that audit recommendations for grant-funded projects are adhered to.
3. Internal Control
• Perform operational, financial, and compliance checks to ensure effective internal controls. Lead in the implementation of solutions as may be required.
• Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, regulations, and donor requirements, and provide written recommendations to enhance efficiency and effectiveness of the control systems.
• Review internal policies and procedures and make recommendations for improvements, if necessary.
• Take a lead role where required in implementing changes relating to issues raised by external auditors.
• Lead on trainings / workshops on policies, procedures and donors’ rules
• Support implementation of grants management system including support the grants team in grant administration and follow-up.
4. Collaborative Projects
• Work with colleagues across the Secretariat and Consortium to support joint projects and initiatives, including events;
• Provide any ad-hoc financial reports that may be required;
• Contribute to other Secretariat activities if and as requested.
Qualifications:
• Preferably Masters Degree in Finance or Accounting or professional accounting qualification, or three to five years equivalent professional experience;
• Minimum of three years of experience in a finance/accounting role preferably with an international NGO;
• Demonstrated experience in developing and managing budgets, with preference for previous experience working in a consortium or a network;
• Experience in working on projects funded by major international donors, with preference for previous experience with EU;
• Strong coordination/negotiation skills specifically with the ability to effectively coordinate among partner organisations;
• Understanding of the security and protection of human rights defenders.
Skills and Competencies:
• Ability to work independently with a proactive and autonomous approach;
• Collaboration: Proven ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders;
• Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and attention to detail in all aspects of work.
• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment;
• Organizational Skills: Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines;
• Strong work ethic including attention to deadlines and detail-oriented work;
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Working Conditions:
• The position is based at the Secretariat of ProtectDefenders.eu in Brussels.
• Occasional travel is required to meet with partners, HRDs, and other stakeholders.
• The officer may be required to work outside regular office hours to meet project deadlines or attend meetings and events.
• Salary in line with Belgian legal requirements and internal policy, based on candidate’s experience : 3200-3600 EUR/month gross (Full time). Other benefits included: health insurance, pension scheme contribution, transportation allowance, meal vouchers, eco-vouchers and 13th month salary.
• 1 year contract with possibility of extension.
ProtectDefenders.eu is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse work environment.
Application Process:
Please send your CV and cover letter (please include information about your availability) as soon as possible before 05 August 2025 by email at recruit@protectdefenders.eu with the subject: ‘SG & Compliance Officer – Your surname’. Please note that use of AI is not accepted.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position may be filled before the deadline.
Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
By joining ProtectDefenders.eu, you will contribute to a meaningful mission dedicated to protecting human rights defenders worldwide. We look forward to receiving your application.
