The John R. Oishei Foundation is searching for a Program Officer to support its work as a catalyst for change to enhance economic vitality and the quality of life for the Buffalo Niagara Region.

The Program Officer will work with nonprofit organizations of all types and skill levels. Key areas of focus will be to advance the Foundation's strategic emphasis on addressing basic human needs, building organizational capacity, assisting with the grant making process, and monitoring program outcomes.

Summary

• Investigate and analyze grant requests; make funding recommendations; monitor progress and outcomes of funded projects.
• Identify potential grantees and programs that advance the Foundation's role as change agent.
• Participate with Knowledge Management Officer to collect, compile, interpret, and disseminate specific knowledge gained through grantmaking.

Duties

• Perform the grant review function, including talking with and/or meeting with potential grantees, making site visits, evaluating proposals and formulating funding recommendations.
• Present funding recommendations to the Foundation's Board of Directors.
• Provide technical assistance as necessary and appropriate to applicants and grantees.
• Assist in the development of new grantmaking initiatives, including conceptualization of new programs, building collaborative relationships and working with key community leaders.
• Develop and monitor the "Basic Human Needs" small grant portfolio.
• Represent the Foundation in the community, among not-for-profit organizations, funding colleagues, government agencies and the private sector.

Dimensions:

• Reports to the President
• Works under the general supervision of the Vice President.
• Interacts on a regular basis with the President, foundation associates, colleagues at other foundations, not-for-profit staff, and civic leaders.
• Occasional interaction with members of the Board of Directors.
• Qualifications and Skills:
• A Bachelor's degree is required
• A minimum of five years working in or with nonprofit organizations, preferably in a management or program development capacity;
• A broad knowledge of the key civic and community issues facing the Buffalo region;
• A personal commitment to improving the quality of life for residents of the Buffalo region;
• Strong analytical ability;
• Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds, experiences and cultures;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
• Self-starter, with strong organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines;
• Team player, committed to collaboration both within the Foundation and in the community;
• Proficiency with basic computer operations and software.