BASIC FUNCTION

In general, provide expert guidance, facilitation, and support for leaders in U.S. cities as they adopt global trade and commerce strategies. In particular: (1) serve as a day-to-day point person at Brookings who guides and directs the work of U.S. metropolitan areas committed to executing exports and FDI strategies through a formal “Global Cities Exchange” program; and (3) serve as an active contributor to the overall Global Cities Initiative.

Note: This position is for a 2-year term, with a possible extension pending additional funding.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Master’s degree in public policy, government, urban planning or related discipline, or juris doctorate, required. At least ten (10) years of practical work experience in public policy field required. Strong international experience required. Strong knowledge and work experience in metropolitan exports strategy planning; regional economic development, general project management, knowledge of federal and state policies and programs required. Demonstrated ability to work closely and effectively with political, civic, business leaders, in both domestic and international contexts, also required. Demonstrated leadership and management skills to manage existing, and develop new, initiatives. Competence to undertake research and writing assignments with little or no supervision required.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS

Practical knowledge in regional economic growth, trade, exports strategies required. Strong grounding in research methods, writing and communications skills required; basic knowledge of software packages such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint required.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

60% Facilitate the adoption of trade strategies within U.S. metropolitan areas

• Serve as the lead point of contact for metro leaders in the first cohort of the Global Cities Exchange, working closely with Brookings Fellow Brad McDearman and local teams to facilitate the adoption of metro export plans.
• Serve as a reviewer for the city selection process, helping to assess applications for readiness, commitment and capacity for participation in the Exchange.
• Lead and participate in bi-annual exchange meetings and regular calls, webinars, and local meetings to help metro leaders effectively execute on the “ten steps” to metro export planning.
• Actively participate in the “FDI pilot,” led by McDearman, to better understand how to integrate foreign direct investment and exports into a unified regional global engagement plan.
• By second cohort, help coach metro teams on the development of integrated exports and FDI strategies.
• Over the course of the Exchange, help steward the implementation efforts of up to 28 U.S. metro areas, including facilitating opportunities for peer learning.
• Help develop relevant programming for the bi-annual exchange meetings that reflect the needs and interests of domestic (and eventually international) metros.
• Build strong relationships with leaders involved in the Exchange so they remain engaged and emerge successful over the duration of the four-year Exchange.
• Present on the opportunities of exports and global trade/engagement to outside groups and stakeholders.
• Leverage metro relationships, including connections to federal, state, and local agencies
• Conduct and participate in regular meetings with federal partners (ITA; TPCC; Census) to pursue progress, discuss issues, and engage them with metro area leaders.

40% Contribute generally to the Global Cities Initiative

• Prepare background materials, updates, and other key materials to Brookings and JPMC staff and leadership, in close collaboration with Development team, regarding the progress being made in domestic cities participating in the Global Cities Exchange.
• As needed, give presentations and/or participate in GCI domestic and global forums and “mini-forums.”
• As needed, contribute to action plans and engagements with international cities.
• Author opinion pieces, blogs, and articles to further promote Brookings research related to trade and exports.
• Participate in regular meetings of the Global Cities Initiative team.

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.