Grants Assistant (short-term)

Location: Brussels, Belgium

Starting: as soon as possible

Contract type: 3 months, can be extended

Salary: Approx. €3,800 gross/month + benefits

Deadline: 6th May at midnight Brussels time

Get into the detail. Stay close to the mission.

At the European Endowment for Democracy (EED), we support people and movements working for democratic change in some of the most complex and politically sensitive environments in the world.

Behind every grant we award is a process of care — for the work, for the people behind it, and for how funds are used. We are urgently looking for an Interim Grants Assistant to fill current gaps and help manage the financial and administrative side of our support to partners.

You will need to be sharp with numbers, comfortable with systems, and confident communicating with grantees. If you are meticulous, reliable, and motivated by meaningful work, this might be the role for you.

What You’ll Do

You will work closely with colleagues from both the Finance and Programmes teams, and be responsible for:

• Reviewing financial reports from grantees to ensure compliance and cost eligibility

• Assisting in the budget review process for new grant proposals

• Drafting contracts and related documentation

• Providing support and guidance to grantees on financial reporting and requirements

• Assisting in coordinating with external consultants or auditors as needed

• Updating the database and maintain the archive

• Assisting with other administrative tasks of the Grants team

What You Bring

• A university degree in Economics, International Affairs, Development, or a related field

• At least 1 year of experience in grant management, financial administration, or audit/control — ideally in civil society or donor organisations

• Full professional fluency in English, both written and spoken

• Knowledge of Western Balkan languages, Arabic or Russian a plus

• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel

• A working understanding of donor compliance and audit practices

• A strong commitment to precision and accuracy

Bonus points for:

• Experience working on or in Eastern Europe, Middle East or Western Balkans

• Familiarity with political developments and civic space in the EU neighbourhood

You are:

• A clear and careful communicator

• Discreet, diplomatic, and professional in high-stakes environments

• Collaborative — but comfortable working independently

• Calm under pressure and organised with deadlines

Why Join Us?

• Purposeful work: You will be part of a mission that supports independent voices and democratic change — often where it’s needed most.

• People-first culture: At EED, we recognise that our most important asset is our people. We value the diversity of skills, backgrounds, and perspectives our team brings to our work — and we work to ensure everyone feels supported, heard, and able to thrive.

• Serious about well-being: We strive to create a positive work experience — with flexibility, respect, and a benefits package that supports your health, life and learning.

How to Apply

Please apply online via our recruitment portal with:

• A short motivation letter

• Your CV (Europass format)

• Contact details for two professional references

Only complete applications will be considered. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a written test.

Please note that we do not accept queries by phone, letter or email. All applications are subject to EU data protection legislation. Pre-employment screening and a criminal records check are part of the recruitment process.

Please note that a consultancy contract might also be possible.