Program Assistant, Authoritarian Influence & Kleptocracy, (IFDS)

Position Summary :

TheInternational Forum for Democratic Studiesat the National Endowment for Democracy is a leading center for research, discussion, innovation, and analysis on the theory and practice of democracy around the world.

The Forum is at the cutting edge of topics such as authoritarian influence, the information space, transnational kleptocracy, and emerging technology and their impact on democracy around the world.

The International Forum for Democratic Studies seeks a Program Assistant to support our team with work on two priority areas : countering foreign authoritarian influence and countering transnational kleptocracy.

The ideal candidate will have strong experience with organizing and running events, solid research and writing skills, be able to handle multiple tasks while maintaining focus on longer-term priorities, and an interest in democracy studies and / or related fields.

Responsibilities :

• Assist with the conception of and help lead the organization of innovative workshops, public events, and other meetings on developments related to the global challenges of authoritarian influence and kleptocracy, their impact on democracy around the world, and responses by civil society.
• Provide operational support for various Forum workshops and activities. Assist with scheduling, planning, and running of briefings and smaller convenings, as well as follow-up activities.
• Support outreach for the dissemination of Forum materials to reach and grow new and influential target audiences within global civil society and adjacent communities.
• Assist, as needed, in the production by Forum Program Officers and outside authors of creative and thought-provoking material that deepens understanding of priority issues.
• Conduct research and prepare analytic content for portfolio-relevant presentations and publications, such as the Forum’s Countering Kleptocracy newsletter and Power 3.0 blog.
• Assist and be skilled in supporting broader Forum staff activities with other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Work effectively across the Forum team, across internal NED departments, and with external contacts.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications :

Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs, Political Science; Human Rights; Democracy studies or related discipline required.

Graduate-level training is welcome.

• Experience in democracy, human rights, international affairs, or a related field.
• Interest in the relationship between democracy development and authoritarian influence, kleptocracy, or corruption.
• Sound understanding of the NED’s mission.
• Ability to travel 1-2x a year
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail with complex projects.
• Excellent analytic, writing, and editing skills with high attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate in a team environment.
• Ability to work efficiently in a dynamic environment, take initiative, and juggle competing priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; familiarity with Mailchimp or other communications platforms a plus.
• Authorized to work in the United States.

This position is part of the NED Bargaining Unit.