Program Officer

Organization Overview

The George and Frances Ball Foundation has partnered with Muncie and Delaware County’s nonprofit organizations since 1937. Carrying forward the legacy of George and Frances Ball, the Foundation is focused on increasing the quality of life and the educational attainment of residents in East Central Indiana. As advocates, conveners, and grantmakers, we value our partnerships with area organizations whose good work moves the needle forward in those key strategic areas.

Today, the Foundation is committed to not only serving as a proactive and strategic grantmaker, but also as a convener, thought leader, advocate, resource sharer, and capacity builder. It primarily serves the community in these ways through backbone leadership of the Cradle to Career Muncie initiative. To view the initiative's 5-year strategic plan, click here.

Position Summary

The Program Officer will support the Foundation’s grantmaking strategies while leading efforts in both communications and data/evaluation. This position combines traditional program officer responsibilities—grant review, relationship management, and strategic support—with a focus on data collection, analysis, and storytelling that elevates the Foundation’s visibility, strengthens community engagement, and informs strategy. Due to the nature of this position, being integrated into the Muncie community is essential. Therefore, local residency will be required. Some evening and weekend work will also be necessary for community engagement and representing the Foundation at different events.

Position Specifics

Functions and Responsibilities

Grantmaking and Program Management

• Manage a portfolio of designated grants aligned with the Foundation’s strategic priorities.
• Conduct due diligence, review proposals, and prepare recommendations for funding.
• Monitor grantee progress through reports, site visits, and evaluation of outcomes.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with nonprofit partners, funders, and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Foundation staff to track and measure program impact.

Foundation Support and Special Projects

• Contribute to strategic planning, board presentations, and organizational learning efforts.
• Support cross-foundation initiatives and collaborations with external partners.
• Participate in professional development and represent the Foundation in community, regional, and national networks.
• Assist in moving the Cradle to Career Muncie strategic plan forward by working with select collaborative Action Networks (CANs).

Communications and External Engagement

• Assist in the implementation of a comprehensive communications strategy for the Foundation and Cradle to Career Muncie.
• Draft and/or edit communications materials, could include; newsletters, press releases, reports, website content, and social media.
• Support public events, convenings, and community engagement efforts, including materials, logistics, and messaging.

Data, Evaluation, and Learning

• Collaborate with staff and partners to identify key performance indicators (KPIs) aligned with the Foundation’s strategic plan.
• Analyze quantitative and qualitative data to inform decision-making.
• Continuous Improvement on trends and best practices in data use, evaluation, and impact measurement.

Qualifications

Successful candidates will bring initiative, independence, and strong time management to their work, while embracing the spirit of collaboration that defines a small but dedicated team. This individual will share in the responsibility of stewarding the assets and integrity of the George and Frances Ball Foundation and will approach the role with a genuine eagerness to learn, grow, and contribute to the Foundation’s lasting impact.

• Bachelor’s degree required (advanced degree in communications, public policy, social sciences, nonprofit management, education, or related field preferred).
• Significant years of experience in philanthropy, nonprofit management, communications, data/evaluation, or related fields.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with the ability to tailor messages to diverse audiences preferred.
• Basic knowledge in data analysis, visualization, and reporting.
• Familiarity with research methods, performance measurement, evaluation frameworks, and communications best practices.
• Familiarity and experience with digital communication platforms.
• Excellent project management, organizational, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and collaborate effectively in a small team environment.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, life, short term disability, retirement plan, and paid time off.
• Professional development opportunities.

How to Apply

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and two work samples (e.g., writing samples and/or data visualizations) through this application form. A list of three professional references, including name, title, relationship, phone number, and email address, is required. 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Link to Apply