Job Description:

Who We Are

Peace is our commitment.  The United States Institute of Peace represents the American people’s shared values and commitment to peace around the world.  We know that Peace is Security – it advances both U.S. and international security by preventing, managing, and mitigating violent conflict.

We are an independent, non-partisan institution and are actively engaged with peacebuilding efforts around the world.  Together we tackle the toughest problems and hold fast to the possibility of a more peaceful world.  (To learn more about USIP programs and job openings, go to https://www.usip.org/about/careers.

If you have a passion for making the world a better place and want to have a front row seat on the world stage, USIP is the place for you. 

JOB BRIEF

The Special Assistant to the President focuses on providing high-level programmatic and administrative support to the President across a wide range of activities. This position is also an integral member of the Executive Office team. Together, the Executive Office team ensures the seamless management of multiple strategic initiatives, interacting daily with all levels of USIP staff including executives and important external stakeholders.

TARGET SALARY RANGE

Grade 12 - $87,000 - $90,000

The Institute uses the General Schedule salary tables for administering compensation. Contractor offers are determined based upon candidate qualifications, related experience, internal equity, and the amount budgeted for the position.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• The selected candidate will report to the President but will work closely with the Chief of Staff and members across the Executive Office.


• Provide with the highest level of discretion and diplomacy, a wide range of executive assistance, and support to the President in managing key relationships with high-level stakeholders.

Support for President:

• Based on a passion for the mission of the Institute and an interest in peacebuilding, international affairs, national security, and conflict resolution, the Special Assistant serves as the primary point of contact for daily substantive briefing materials for the President.


• Works with the Chief of Staff and Executive Office team to ensure that the President has all necessary background information and prep materials for meetings, speaking engagements, travel, and events.


• Manages “run-of-show” for numerous high-profile events involving the President at the Institute.


• As requested, attends meetings with and/or for the President and takes notes for follow-up.


• Accompanies President on key travel, domestic and international, providing on-the-go support.

Research and Communications:

• Outstanding research skills, quick, in-depth information gathering, and analysis.


• Drafts all correspondence, background briefs, speeches, and talking points for the President, across a range of activities.


• Conducts and synthesizes research on events, subjects, and trends related to USIP’s work.


• Researches and prepares briefings and communication materials for meetings and presentations. 

Special Projects:

• In a rapidly changing environment, responds to a variety of special projects, including; complex logistical situations in USIP field offices, high-level events, working groups, etc.

Support for Board of Directors:

• Under the direction and oversight of the Chief of Staff, drafts and prepares materials to support the work of USIP’s board, including developing memos, drafting agendas, preparing briefing materials, and tracking do-outs, as requested.

Performs other duties as assigned.  

QUALIFICATIONS

• A Master’s degree in a related field is highly desirable.


• Abiding and strong interest in the mission and work of the Institute.


• 8 – 10 years of substantive experience in a fast-paced organization, ideally within international relations or public policy setting required.


• Demonstrated outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, and previous experience working to support senior executives.


• Knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook), and databases and/or data management tools.


• Must have excellent research and writing skills, ability to multi-task complex initiatives. strong organizational skills, and ability to work independently yet collegially.


• Ability to perform responsibilities in a mature, responsible manner, make decisions that are in the best interest of the Institute, and exhibit grace under pressure.


• Strict attention to detail and commitment to follow-through.


• Must exhibit grace in the face of changing dynamics and competing priorities.


• Must be a team player, collaborative, and have a good sense of humor.

All USIP contract and employee positions are contingent upon the favorable completion of a suitability background investigation.

HOW TO APPLY
To be considered for this position, please submit a complete application package consisting of:
1.  Completed employment application including titles, dates of hire, and salary requirements.
2.  Cover letter
3.  Resume

For questions about this position please email recruitment@usip.org. Do not send resumes or attachments to this email address.

Only those applicants that are selected for further discussions will be contacted. 

No Phone Calls. Interviews will be scheduled by appointment only. 

USIP is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy and practice of USIP to offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, age, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, political affiliations or belief, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

See job description

Apply Now