Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Kelly Parajón

Summary

Finance professional with more than six years of progressive experience in grants and contracts management. Experienced in managing and supervising subgrantees in Latin America, ensuring compliance with funding agencies regulations and budgetary guidelines. Proven track record in providing training, guidance, and administrative support to optimize grant and contract management processes, all while maintaining meticulous records and facilitating efficient financial operations. Adept at program and award management, financial analysis, and donor reporting. Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills, with a deep commitment to international development.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience

Work History

Grants Specialist (Consultant)

Global Communities
10.2020 - Current
  • Managed and supervised subgrantees in field offices (Nicaragua and Guatemala), providing training and guidance on regulations compliance, budget management, and reporting.
  • Assisted subgrantees in the development of grant proposals, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and compliance with funding agencies requirements.
  • Reviewed subgrantee budgets and financial reports, offering recommendations for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with subgrantees and provided ongoing support to address their needs, challenges, and concerns.
  • Monitored subgrantee financial reports, budgets, and expenditures, identifying opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to prepare grant applications, including cost proposal development.

Grants & Contracts Officer

Global Communities
10.2018 - 09.2020
  • Managed the oversight of subagreements within the Nicaragua portfolio, ensuring compliance with donor regulations (USAID, DOS), budgetary guidelines, and reporting deadlines.
  • Developed and executed training programs for subgrantees, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed for effective grant management.
  • Collaborated with Program Managers to enhance subgrantees proposals, budgets, and reports ensuring adherence to guidelines.
  • Managed the documentation and tracking of subgrantee financial performance, facilitating decision-making.
  • Prepared detailed reports on subgrantee activities and progress.
  • Ensured timely submission of subagreement reports and deliverables.

Grants & Contracts Assistant

Global Communities
01.2018 - 09.2018
  • Provided essential administrative support to the Grants & Contracts team, with a primary focus on assisting subgrantees in the field office.
  • Assisted in the development and delivery of training programs for subgrantees, helping them navigate donor regulations and Global Communities requirements effectively.
  • Maintained organized records and documentation related to grant and contract agreements.
  • Collaborated with team members to ensure compliance with funding agency requirements and internal policies.
  • Assisted in the preparation of subagreements and contracts.
  • Tracked and monitored subagreement budgets and expenditures to ensure accuracy.

Grants & Contracts Support (Consultant)

Global Communities
07.2017 - 12.2017
  • Provided administrative support for grant and contract management activities.
  • Maintained accurate records of grant and contract documents.
  • Prepared and reviewed subgrant reports and progress updates.
  • Participated in grant and contract audits, addressing any compliance issues.

Finance Intern

Global Communities
09.2016 - 06.2017
  • Supported the finance team in day-to-day financial operations.
  • Supported the finance team in day-to-day financial operations.
  • Assisted in data entry and financial record maintenance.
  • Prepared financial reports and spreadsheets for analysis.
  • Provided support in audit preparations and document gathering.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Finance (Magna Cum Laude) -

Universidad Centroamericana
05.2018

Skills

  • Grants and Contracts management
  • Financial analysis and budget development
  • Critical thinking
  • Donor regulations (2 CFR 200, USAID, DOS)
  • Team Communication
  • Attention to detail
  • Advanced computer skills

Languages

Spanish (Native)
English (B2)

Timeline

Grants Specialist (Consultant)

Global Communities
10.2020 - Current

Grants & Contracts Officer

Global Communities
10.2018 - 09.2020

Grants & Contracts Assistant

Global Communities
01.2018 - 09.2018

Grants & Contracts Support (Consultant)

Global Communities
07.2017 - 12.2017

Finance Intern

Global Communities
09.2016 - 06.2017

Bachelor’s degree in Finance (Magna Cum Laude) -

Universidad Centroamericana
Kelly Parajón