Program Assistant, Arts and Culture

Founded in 1946, The Middle East Institute (MEI) is Washington’s leading policy institute dedicated to the study of the Middle East.

We are a non-partisan think tank providing expert policy analysis, as well as a hub for engaging with the region’s arts and culture.

MEI’s Arts and Culture Center runs a gallery dedicated to Middle Eastern art, organizes events and panels at the intersection of art and policy, and runs cultural diplomacy programs in the Middle East.

Please read the information in this job post thoroughly to understand exactly what is expected of potential candidates.

Position Overview :

An integral MEI’s Arts and Culture team member, the Program Assistant, Arts and Culture supports MEI’s programming in Washington, DC, and the Middle East.

The Program Assistant will work closely with the VP for Arts and Culture and the Director of Cultural Affairs to organize high-impact cultural events, manage travel and logistics for MEI’s overseas delegations, assist with mounting gallery exhibits, oversee the Center’s social media and marketing efforts, and ensure the smooth running of the Center’s various programs.

The ideal candidate must be a highly organized, motivated, and passionate individual interested in cultural diplomacy. Experience as a project manager is a plus.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to :

• Assist in the day-to-day operations of the Arts and Culture department, including handling and tracking shipping logistics for MEI Art Gallery’s 2-3 annual exhibits.
• Manage complex travel logistics for cultural diplomacy initiatives to the Middle East, including scheduling and guest outreach.
• Collaborate closely with the arts and culture team to organize panel events, performances, and other cultural activities.
• Support all marketing efforts including creating marketing materials, developing and maintaining mailing lists.
• Oversee the booking and hosting of tours for students and organizations visiting the MEI Art Gallery.
• Support the Center’s social media efforts by collaborating with the communications team to create engaging content.
• Serve as the Center's primary contact and coordinator for potential foundation grants.
• Support all Arts and Culture initiatives and perform other duties as assigned or required.

Qualifications :

• Bachelor’s degree is required in Arts, Journalism, Middle East Studies, or a related field.
• 1-3 years of professional experience, preferably with a focus on event coordination or project management.
• Strong knowledge of the Middle East and holds a deep passion for the arts.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, and can manage multiple projects to deadlines while maintaining strong attention to detail.
• Enthusiastic contributor in team environments, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and maintain a customer-service mindset.
• Ability to work some irregular hours including evenings.
• Ability and willingness to travel internationally.
• Willingness to support the Center as needed.
• Experience with graphic design, website content management, and photo / video editing skills preferred (Canva, InDesign, Adobe Creative Suite, Constant Contact, Photoshop).

Note : This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and qualifications associated with the role.

Duties may be subject to change based on the organization's evolving needs.

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