National SVP, Research and Grants Administration

Overview

Since our founding in 1924, we've cut cardiovascular disease deaths in half, but there is still so much more to do. To overcome today’s biggest health challenges and accelerate this progress, we need passionate individuals like you. Join our movement, be part of the progress, and help ensure a healthier future for all. You matter, and so does the impact you can make with us.

 

The American Heart Association has an outstanding opportunity for a National SVP, Research and Grants Administration in our Science department!

 

This position can be home-based. 

 

Please submit your application for this position by October 3, 2025.

 

The Association offers many resources to help you maintain work-life harmonization through your changing needs and life situations. To help you be successful, you will have access to Heart U, our award-winning corporate university, as well as additional training and support, locally.

 

#TheAHALife is more than a company culture; it is our way of life. It embodies our commitment to work-life harmonization and is guided by our core values where our employees can thrive both personally and professionally. Discover why you will Be Seen. Be Heard. Be Valued at the American Heart Association by following us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, and at heart.jobs.

Responsibilities

The Senior Vice President (SVP), Research and Grants Administration, will lead the strategic direction and operational excellence of the American Heart Association’s research enterprise, including board-directed initiatives and donor-funded awards. This executive role is pivotal to advancing the Association’s mission through innovative research funding and scientific grant programs. With a focus on national impact, the SVP will shape strategy, foster scientific collaboration, and ensure the integrity and effectiveness of research initiatives across the organization. 

 

Research Leadership

 

• Guide the Association’s research agenda, staying abreast of trends and innovations impacting non-profit research funding organizations.
• Represent the Association in national scientific forums, promoting funding opportunities and thought leadership.
• Key staff leader in supporting the Research Committee and key volunteers to evaluate and enhance research programs.

 

Grants Strategy & Oversight

• Lead the development and execution of research grant programs, ensuring alignment with the Association’s strategic priorities.
• Manage over a $500M portfolio across the full grant lifecycle—from application to closeout—ensuring compliance, financial oversight, timely reporting, and alignment with funder and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee all aspects of grant lifecycle management, including promotion, application, peer review, award setup, post-award reporting, and compliance.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including Mission Advancement and Corporate Relations, to foster growth of research funding and novel initiatives.

Organizational & Financial Stewardship

 

• Direct departmental budgeting and financial planning, identifying new revenue opportunities and ensuring fiscal accountability.
• Develop and maintain policies, procedures, and structural frameworks to support research operations and compliance.

Team & Volunteer Engagement

 

• Lead and develop a high-performing team of 40+ cross-functional colleagues responsible for program execution, from development and applicant support to post-award compliance, reporting, and payments, to achieve departmental and organizational goals.
• Serve as the expert voice of the Association’s research enterprise to internal and external stakeholders, including volunteer leaders, peer funders, and research institutions.
• Work closely with volunteers, including committees, task forces, and working groups.

 

Qualifications

 

• MD or PhD in biomedical, biological, public health, or related discipline.
• Minimum ten (10) years of relevant research experience, as well as demonstrated academic leadership experience and career progression.
• At least eight (8) years of supervisory experience in the research domain.
• Background in non-profit, government, or academic research administration.
• Proven strategic planning and program management expertise.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Experience in volunteer management and cross-functional collaboration.
• Strong understanding of related technology and information systems.
• Ability to travel overnight up to