The Grants Officer will work as part of the Grants & Programmes Team to support organisations applying for funding each year through the Foundations grants programme. The post holder manages important relationships with potential and current grantees, building trust and an understanding of their purpose and aims and supporting them to submit appropriate and high-quality applications for funding against the funds criteria and Foundation’s priorities. To contribute to wider initiatives, as directed by the Senior Grants Manager to ensure the Foundation maintain high standards and contribute to national data sharing and initiatives that strengthen the work and reach of the foundation. The Grants Officer will report to the Senior Grants Manager and will work closely with colleagues across the Foundation contributing to the delivery of the Foundation’s Strategic Plan, Vision and values. Responsibilities To undertake tasks associated with BLCF's grantmaking functions, including carrying out due diligence and assessments of grants applications (under the supervision of the Senior Grants Manager). Process all applications within agreed timelines, working alongside Fund Leads to review and assess grant applications effectively. Work alongside members of the team and Data Officer to maximise use of our in-house CRM database for monitoring and impact reporting. Provide grant-making support and advice to potential and existing grantees on our funds and programmes, under the guidance of the Senior Grants Manager, to ensure open and transparent access to our programmes and proactively looking to address inequality and fairer access to opportunities the Foundation offers. Work closely with other members of the team to ensure that the Foundation achieves excellence in grant-making and all its operational aspects. Carry out other associated duties, which may arise, develop, or be assigned, in line with the scale and general nature of the post. Performance Management Contribute to the production of delivery/donor reports as required to funders as requested by Senior Grants Manager. Work with Senior Grants Manager to agreed development areas in annual appraisal to ensure high levels of knowledge and expertise are developed that add value to the Foundation. Ensure appropriate levels of training are maintained and a good working understanding of the policies and procedures of the Foundation. Relationship Management Maintain and share our vision and values and help those who wish to work with us understand the processes and requirements we have. Listen and learn, and share the needs of communities back into the work of the Foundation to ensure we are always 'need led'. Representing the Organisation Maintain a good working understanding of community and charity sector issues to better inform our work, ensuring information is cascaded to wider members of the team. Be an ambassador for the work of the Foundation by demonstrating its values in the delivery of its work. Experience Clear understanding of the wider voluntary and charity sector in Bedfordshire. Some experience of working in and for the charity and volunteer sectors. Some prior experience of grant-making or similar assessment work (D). Skills & Abilities Excellent personnel skills and able to work effectively within a small team providing support across a width of areas. A self-starter, able to act on own initiative and to organise, plan and prioritise own workload to meet deadlines. Keen to learn and develop new skills and knowledge in the VCSE and Grant making sector Ability to work effectively under pressure and to demonstrate a professional approach in a range situation. Fully computer literate including Word, Excel, Power Point and use of databases. People with lived experience / professional experience of support for minoritised communities are particularly encouraged to apply. (D) Understanding of need in the Bedfordshire County. (D) Familiarity with legal and financial requirements for charities, community groups and social enterprises. (D) Knowledge of uses of Salesforce. (D) Equality Issues Able to demonstrate how diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) can be made integral to their work and service delivery. Some knowledge and understanding of equality issues and legislation relating to the charity sector. (D) Personal Attributes Committed to customer care and the provision of high-quality services. Detail-oriented. Punctual. Committed to learning and development. Ambitious, energetic and with an outward focus. Highly motivated, with an enthusiasm and determination to build the resources available and needed to support community needs across Bedfordshire. Creative and flexible in outlook. Strong commitment to the values of the Community Foundation. Other Requirements Able to work evenings and weekends as necessary. Ability to access and work across all of the county of Bedfordshire or other geographical areas as dictated by our funding streams, when necessary. To ensure we meet the business and operational requirements of the organisation. Current driving licence and access to a vehicle.