BASIC FUNCTION

Under the supervision of the Fellow and Director of the Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World (IWR), responsible for assisting IWR Project Manager in coordinating the annual U.S.-Islamic World Forum; planning other Project events and activities designed to educate and engage policymakers, civil society leaders, opinion-shapers, and others within the U.S. and Muslim world; and providing administrative support to Project staff.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree required. Minimum of two year’s relevant, professional experience required (preferably in event or project coordination). Complete fluency in written and spoken English is required. Experience dealing with policy issues and with high-level personnel from both the U.S. and the Middle East strongly preferred. Must be currently authorized to work for any employer in the U.S.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS

Knowledge of, and general interest in, U.S.-Muslim world relations preferred. Excellent organizational skills with high level of attention to detail and follow-up. Strong oral and written communication skills with ability to interact with all levels of internal and external stakeholders. Superb organizational and interpersonal skills; poise, tact, discretion and mature judgment to handle and respond appropriately and professionally in high-pressure atmosphere. Ability to multi-task and complete tasks in a timely manner whether working independently or as part of a team. Ability to effectively utilize the Internet. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications is required.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

70% Conference and Event Planning

• Assist IWR Director and Project Manager with all preparations for the U.S.-Islamic World Forum (150-person conference held annually in Doha, Qatar or Washington, DC).
• Take the lead in tracking all logistical arrangements for conference participants (including invitations, travel, accommodations, transportation, visas, etc.).
• Assist in planning and coordination of all Project events and outreach activities throughout the year.
• As instructed by Director or Project Manager, liaise with travel providers, site staff, external vendors, and others essential to implementation of annual conference and other events.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records of event participants and materials.
• Maintain IWR contact database, including updating and expanding information on all contacts.

30% Administrative Support

• Provide administrative support to IWR Director and Project Manager as needed; including assistance with scheduling, managing contact lists, handling correspondence and other administrative duties as requested.
• Work with Communications staff to update the Project’s page on the Brookings website and social media accounts.
• Work with Research Assistant to ensure publications are distributed to relevant and interested parties in a timely and efficient manner.
• Handle reimbursement requests from conference and event participants.
• Work closely with Saban Center and Brookings Institution staff to ensure Project’s activities are carried out in accordance with guidelines and processes of the Foreign Policy program and the Institution.

Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications for the position will be considered. Successful completion of a background investigation is required for employment in this position. Brookings welcomes resumes from all qualified applicants, particularly women and minorities. No phone calls and no employment agencies please.