Abstract. We propose the use of programmable Grid resource partitioning heuristics in the context of a distributed service Grid management architecture. The architecture is capable of performing automated and exclusive resource-to-service assignations based on Grid resource status/properties and monitored service demand. We present two distinct approaches for the partitioning problem, the first based on Divisible Load Theory and the second built on Genetic Algorithms. Advantages and drawbacks of each approach are discussed and their performance is evaluated using NSGrid. Results show that automated resource-to-service partitioning simplifies scheduling decisions, improves service QoS support and allows efficient computational/network resource usage.