THE ORGANIZATION

Templeton Religion Trust (TRT) is a global charitable entity established by Sir John Templeton in 1984, and active since 2012. TRT supports research and engagement projects as well as storytelling (public communications) related to projects seeking to enrich the conversation about religion. Through its grant-making and dissemination efforts in support of interdisciplinary projects at the intersection of theology, philosophy, and the sciences, TRT seeks to improve the well-being of individuals and societies through spiritual growth and an ever-improving understanding of spiritual realities and spiritual information.

OVERVIEW

The Program Officer works collaboratively with other team members to develop grantmaking programs and to help lead a portfolio of grants to achieve the foundation’s mission. Reporting directly to the Vice President for Strategy and Programs, the Program Officer is responsible for synergistically developing and critically reviewing proposals, conducting site visits, monitoring grant progress, and representing the organization on committees. The Program Officer works with grantees and community organizations to identify areas for potential funding and ensuring that the strategic goals and objectives of Templeton Religion Trust are met. This role involves program design, grant assessment, relationship management, and monitoring the impact of funded projects. Additionally, the Program Officer will contribute to strategic discussions, offering innovative ideas and insights to enhance departmental objectives, ensuring alignment with broader organizational goals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Assist in the development of program initiatives by conducting research, gathering data, and providing analytical support to inform strategic planning.

Participate in the initial stages of strategy formulation, offering insights and recommendations to shape program initiatives under the direction of senior staff

Support the identification and analysis of emerging issues within designated funding areas by conducting research and compiling reports.

Contribute to discussions and the development of recommendations, facilitating information flow to assist in decision-making processes led by senior staff.

Support senior staff by compiling and summarizing findings to inform program initiatives.

Participate in the coordinated program committee group.

Manage the life cycle of the grantmaking process, including the organization’s relationship with project leaders and grantee organizations.

Participate in all aspects of the grant proposal submission and review process.

Ensure completion of all administrative and workflow protocols, including the grant management system.

Communicate the organization’s fundamental mandates (donor intent) and strategic priorities internally and externally.

Identify and develop grants aligned with strategy focus areas that lead to the achievement of specific outcome goals.

Manage a portfolio of grants to ensure alignment with organizational goals and priorities.

Partner with grantees and other stakeholders to identify and resolve challenges in projects to ensure achievement of stated objectives and outcomes.

Conduct site visits to assess the progress and impact of funded programs.

Collaborate with colleagues to design, implement, and evaluate new funding initiatives and programs.

Provide strategic advice to grantees, offering guidance on project execution and sustainability.

Conduct thorough due diligence on potential grantees, including assessing their organizational capacity and financial stability.

Work with the Sr. Grants Associate to apply metrics to measure the effectiveness and impact of funded programs.

Support the preparation of reports and presentations for the board and senior leadership regarding grantmaking outcomes and impact.

Maintain strong relationships with grantees, community partners, and stakeholders.

Serve as a liaison between the foundation and external partners, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Contribute to the development and refinement of the organization’s grantmaking strategy and funding priorities.

Stay up to date with best practices in grantmaking and nonprofit management.

Work collaboratively with colleagues on specified projects and tasks.

Provide review of progress and evaluation reports in the grants management system.

Analyze trends and data to identify opportunities for improvement in the grantmaking process.

Monitor and review the performance of grants and grantees within his/her sphere of responsibility.

COMPETENCIES

Excellent planning, organization, and time management skills

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Demonstrable research and analytical skills

Detail oriented

Ability to multitask, and demonstrate flexibility with respect to activities, assignments

Interpersonal sensitivity

Self-starter, has the ability to demonstrate initiative in the completion of assignments or addressing issues/concerns

Proven ability to work independently to achieve clearly defined goals

Technologically proficient and comfortable with office/business equipment

A proactive and adaptive work ethic

Ability to develop positive working relationships

Resourceful problem solver

High standard of personal and professional development

Demonstrate high degree of confidentiality, integrity, honesty

Proven ability to assess program effectiveness and use data for decision making

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

A Master's degree (preferably research) from an internationally recognized, accredited university or college is required.

Doctoral degree preferred.

Strong knowledge of the research sector and current trends in grantmaking.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

5 years professional experience as a Program Officer or similar position.

Demonstrated experience engaging with programs and/or initiatives related to Futures of Religions.

Project management or equivalent, preferably in an operational or administrative role.

Professional experience in a foundation and/or trust, grant-making or research setting preferred.

Experience with budget management and financial oversight for grants.

SUCCESS IN THIS ROLE REQUIRES

Passionate commitment to the vision and mission of Sir John Templeton

Intellectual curiosity

Humble spirit and desire to work for the benefit of others

Ability to travel

Highest standards of professionalism and discretion

Capacity to manage multiple projects simultaneously

ALL INTERESTED CANDIDATES ARE INVITED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUME/CV DIRECTLY VIA EMAIL TO recruitment@templetonreligiontrust.org.

PLEASE INCLUDE THE POSITION TITLE IN THE SUBJECT LINE.

THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS THURSDAY, JANUARY 15TH 2026.

Templeton Religion Trust jobs

Program Officer