POSITION SUMMARY

The Simons Foundation is seeking a Grants Payment Manager/Senior Grants Payment Manager (dependent upon experience level and qualifications). This position is responsible for managing all aspects of the payments process for the Simons Foundation and the Simons Foundation International, within our grants management system, the Simons Award Manager (SAM). In 2024, this included processing 3,165 payments totaling over $486 million, as well as scheduling over $400 million in new commitments across 844 awards for both funding entities.

The Grants Payment Manager/Senior Grants Payment Manager oversees the scheduling and approval of all grant and gift-related payments. They manage payment modifications and holds, and ensure compliance with the foundation’s policies, including carry-forward requirements and the unspent funds process. The Grants Payment Manager/Senior Grants Payment Manager also oversees the administration of over 600 Institution Profiles across 30 countries, which includes the oversight of contacts and user administration and the submission and approval of banking details. They are also responsible for all payment and institution-related reporting. The role requires strong collaboration across internal teams and with external grantees. This position will report to the Vice President, Grants Management and currently manages two Grants Payment Assistants.

This position is a full-time position based on-site at the Simons Foundation’s New York City offices. Visit the Simons Foundation career page to learn more.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversees all aspects of the monthly payment process, including the submission and approval of payment details, the scheduling of payments, the modification of payments, and the resolution of payment-related holds.
• Manages Institution Profiles, which include automated clearing house and wire transfer payment details, as well as contacts and user information for the institutions.
• Reviews and approves Authorized Institution Officials responsible for submitting payment details.
• Produces all grant-related reports, including the monthly payment schedule, quarterly and annual reconciliations and reports, and other reports as needed.
• Reconciles payment data in the Simons Award Manager (SAM) against the finance department’s records to ensure accuracy.
• Builds strong relationships with other departments at the foundation, most importantly the finance and business information technology departments.
• Continually improves payment process workflows, reporting, and related standard operating procedures. 
• Serves as a key representative of the grants department in cross-functional meetings regarding payment policies and processes.
• Acts as the subject-matter expert for payment functions, providing guidance, best practices, and risk analysis for SAM.
• Creates payment-related deliverable templates, instructions, and FAQs for internal and external use.
• Oversees the payment deliverable submission and review process, ensuring timely and accurate processing.
• Ensure grantee compliance with unspent funds, carry-forward policies, and other payment-related requirements.
• Manages and provides guidance to two Grants Payment Assistants, ensuring accurate and timely execution of their responsibilities.
• Performs any other duties or tasks as assigned or required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Bachelor’s degree

Experience

• At least 5-8 years of experience in grants administration, financial operations, or a similar role, preferably in a nonprofit, foundation or research institution setting.
• Experience with reconciling financial data is essential.
• Experience managing staff, delegating tasks, and mentoring team members.

Related Skills & Other Requirements

• Ability to work independently and manage others
• Superb Excel and PowerPoint skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to complete multiple tasks while working under deadlines with competing priorities
• Familiarity with grant management systems (like SmartSimple, ProposalCentral, or similar) is a plus.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $90,000 - $135,000, depending on experience level and qualifications.
• In addition to competitive salaries, the Simons Foundation provides employees with an outstanding benefits package.

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS

• Please submit a résumé and cover letter stating your interest in the position.

Our Commitment to Expanding Pathways to Science & Opportunities for All:

Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. The Simons Foundation is committed to advancing basic science and mathematics to benefit humankind and expand our collective understanding of our world. As part of our mission, we support partners, programs, and initiatives that seek to broaden the scientific community and open pathways to science and mathematics careers.

The Simons Foundation provides equal opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state, and local law.