Finance and Grants Manager

About the Refugee Congress 

Refugee Congress (RC) is a national nonpartisan organization, built and led by leaders who have experienced forced displacement, that promotes the well-being, inclusion, and dignity of refugees, asylees, and other forcibly displaced peoples (FDPs). At Refugee Congress, we use the term “Forcibly Displaced People” to emphasize that FDPs arrive or remain in the U.S. through a variety of protection pathways. The shared identity of the community we serve is not grounded in a legal definition of forced displacement, but in the shared experience of having left countries of origin because of persecution, armed conflict, state violence, climate displacement, and other situations that endanger their lives. 

Refugee Congress envisions a world where forcibly displaced people are treated with dignity and respect, their contributions are recognized, and their voices are integral to shaping policies that affect their lives. Our mission is to promote the well-being, inclusion, and dignity of refugees, asylees, and other FDPs through leadership development, public education, and advocacy. Through our work, we aim to ensure that policies and programs are more inclusive and equitable by involving those who have experienced forced displacement in their creation.

With over 100 members representing 35+ countries across five continents, RC’s “signature program” consists of Delegates who bring diverse professional expertise in fields such as education, medicine, nonprofit management, and advocacy. We are committed to narrative change, advocacy, and leadership development—our three core pillars of work—to transform public attitudes, advance inclusive public policies, and empower refugee leaders to take part in decision-making at all levels.

Position Summary

The Finance and Grants Manager is responsible for managing RC’s financial and grants management systems and operations. This includes, but is not limited to, day-to-day financial operations, contract compliance, and working closely with the Executive Director on budget development and financial reporting. The Finance and Grants Manager will work closely with RC’s accounting firm to ensure accurate monthly reports and prepare for audits. This new position will report to the Executive Director. As RC separates from its long-time fiscal sponsor and prepares for new federal funding, this position will work with the Executive Director to establish sound financial management policies and procedures to ensure fiscal responsibility and integrity. This is an ideal position for an analytical, detail-oriented individual looking to grow their nonprofit financial management skills in a growing organization in the refugee field.

Responsibilities 

The Finance and Grants Manager will report to the Executive Director and carry out the duties below.

Day-to-Day Financial Transactions 

• Manage financial transactions including accounts payable, receivable, and credit card reconciliations.
• Receive all incoming vendor invoices, review and submit for approval in Quickbooks. 
• Serve as point-of-contact for vendors, respond to inquiries, and collect and organize W9s.
• Process subgrants to partner institutions and organizations.
• Manage staff and member reimbursement requests.
• Monitor organizational credit card use, collect receipts, and code monthly statements. 
• Maintain and retain financial records for compliance, recordkeeping, and archiving.
• Manage a regulatory compliance calendar to ensure timely filing of all reports needed to maintain good standing with local, state, and federal agencies.

Budgeting and Financial Reporting

This position will work closely with RC’s accounting firm to:

• Prepare financial reports and communicate financial matters to the Executive Director and Board Treasurer.
• Carry out annual organizational and program budget development processes, working closely with Executive Director and Program Managers.
• Provide regular financial reports, cash flow projections, and budget to actual reports for review with the Executive Director.

Grants Management and Reporting

• Maintain calendar of all grant reporting requirements and timelines. 
• Oversee life cycle of new three-year federal grant, from receiving to closeout, ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations and guidelines. 
• Efficiently manage day-to-grant administration, oversee budget planning, and maintain accurate and complete financial records for grant funders.
• Proactively monitor grant budgets and narrative report requirements, track expenditures, and prepare required reports for both Refugee Congress staff and board as well as program executive/steering committees.
• Ensure that all grant activities comply with funding agency requirements and internal policies.

Internal Accounting Processes and Controls

Working closely with the Executive Director and accounting firm, this position will:

• Develop & implement internal financial systems processes and procedures to ensure fiscal accountability and integrity of the organization, and communicate those policies and procedures to staff.
• Monitor financial risk management, including contracts, insurance, and other legal agreements.
• Manage/serve as liaison to insurance agents.
• Manage annual audit process with independent auditors.

The Finance Manager will participate in leadership team meetings, staff check-ins, organizational planning sessions, and professional development opportunities.

Requirements/Qualifications

• A minimum of 5 years of work experience in nonprofit financial and grants management. 
• Bachelor's degree in a related field is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated track record of effectively managing financial operations and budgets.
• Experience and knowledge of federal funding and compliance requirements is a must.
• Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Experience and familiarity with QuickBooks. 
• Ability to clearly and effectively communicate financial information.
• Ability to keep sensitive information confidential, excellent integrity, and good judgment.
• Ability to work well in a collaborative team environment and develop positive working relationships and problem solve with people of different backgrounds.
• Demonstrated ability to participate in and foster a work environment of mutual respect and collaboration; commitment to a culture of learning.
• Commitment to the mission of Refugee Congress.