International Grant Writer & Project Manager

Mid-Senior Level Position | Temporary Contract

Location: Bergamo (city centre)

Contract Type: Temporary (Renewable)

Start Date: First week of September 2025

Application deadlline: August 28 2025

Salary range €28,000-€34,000 gross per annum; salary commensurate with experience and existing qualifications.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced European Grant Writer and Project Manager to join our team on a temporary contract basis. This dual-competency role combines strategic grant writing with hands-on project management and coordination of international funding initiatives.

The successful candidate will replace a departing team member and must be ready to hit the ground running, taking immediate responsibility for ongoing projects and funding applications across multiple international donor frameworks.

Key Responsibilities

Grant Writing & Funding

• Develop and write compelling grant proposals for EU funding programs (Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, LIFE, etc.)
• Prepare applications for international donors, including World Bank, UN agencies, and bilateral funding bodies
• Research and identify suitable funding opportunities aligned with organisational objectives
• Manage national grant applications and coordinate submission processes
• Ensure compliance with donor requirements and guidelines

Project Management & Coordination

• Technical Coordination: Lead project implementation, manage work packages, coordinate deliverables and milestones
• Financial Coordination: Oversee project budgets, financial reporting, and cost management across multiple funding streams
• Consortium Coordination: Manage multi-partner consortia, facilitate communication between stakeholders, and ensure collaborative project delivery
• Monitor project progress and implement corrective measures when necessary
• Prepare comprehensive progress reports and financial statements for donors

Strategic Management

• Develop project management frameworks and standard operating procedures
• Maintain relationships with international donors and funding bodies
• Support organisational fundraising strategy and donor diversification
• Provide training and guidance to junior staff on grant writing and project management

Essential Requirements

Professional Experience

• Minimum 5-7 years of demonstrated experience in EU and international grant writing
• Proven track record of successful grant applications with EU institutions, World Bank, or similar international donors
• Extensive experience in managing EU co-funded projects from inception to completion
• Demonstrated expertise in consortium coordination and multi-stakeholder project management
• Previous experience as a Project Coordinator or Technical Coordinator in international development or research projects

Technical Skills

• Expert knowledge of EU funding mechanisms (Horizon Europe, FP10, Single Market, EFS, LIFE, Erasmus+, INTERREG, etc.)
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools (PMI, PRINCE2, MS Project, etc.)
• Advanced financial management skills, including budget preparation, monitoring, and reporting
• Strong understanding of EU procurement and administrative procedures
• Experience with donor reporting requirements and compliance frameworks

Core Competencies

• Exceptional writing skills in English with the ability to craft compelling, technically accurate proposals
• Analytical and strategic thinking with attention to detail and deadline management
• Leadership abilities with experience managing cross-cultural, multidisciplinary teams
• Negotiation and diplomatic skills for managing consortium partnerships
• Problem-solving capabilities and adaptability in dynamic project environments

Language Requirements

English: Native or near-native proficiency (essential)

Italian: Professional working proficiency preferred

Additional European languages are advantageous

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant field (International Development, European Studies, Project Management, etc.)
• Professional project management certification (PMP, PRINCE2, etc.)
• Experience with specific sectors relevant to our work
• Knowledge of international development frameworks and sustainable development goals
• Previous experience working with NGOs, academic institutions, or international organisations

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package: €28,000-34,000 per annum
• Renewable contract with potential for extension based on performance and funding
• Professional development opportunities in international project management
• Collaborative, multicultural working environment
• Opportunity to work on impactful projects with international reach

Selection Criteria

• Candidates will be evaluated based on:
• Demonstrated success in securing EU and international funding (30%)
• Project coordination and consortium management experience (30%)
• Technical writing and communication skills (25%)
• Cultural fit and availability for immediate start (15%)

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and encourage applications from all qualified candidates.