Program Assistant

Program Assistant – Washington DC

Informed by six decades of experience and deep local expertise, The Asia Foundation addresses critical issues affecting Asia in the 21st century: governance and law, economic development, women’s empowerment, environment, and regional cooperation. We work with innovative leaders and communities to build effective institutions and advance path-breaking reforms. Together with our partners, we are committed to Asia’s continued development as a peaceful, just, and thriving region of the world.

The Asia Foundation’s Washington DC Office is seeking a Program Assistant . Reporting to the Assistant Program Director the Program Assistant will provide administrative, program and logistical support to the Washington office.

POSITION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Relationships:

Internal:

Daily interaction with Senior Vice President, Director, Assistant Director, Program Specialist Group, Program Officers, Senior Finance & Administration Manager, and Office Manager; frequent communication with staff in San Francisco and in 18 Asian country offices on program planning.

External:

Contact with Washington-based specialists in relevant program fields for organizing exchange programs, consultants, and TAF/Washington programs; contact with Washington-based institutions for virtual and in-person event planning and information; participation and note-taking at virtual and in-person meetings with Washington policy community; contact with area hotels and event vendors as needed; respond to external inquiries regarding Foundation programs.

Program Support:

• Assist with program design and logistical arrangements for virtual and in-person meetings, exchange programs, seminars/webinars, panel discussions, and other events involving senior-level U.S. and international participants.
• Assist with scheduling appointments, arranging meeting schedules, and confirming travel arrangements for international grantees and visiting staff; periodically arrange visas at Asian embassies.
• Draft and edit documents such as program descriptions and background papers, as well as conduct research on specific topics as needed.
• Develop content for and manage distribution of monthly electronic newsletter.
• Assist with public outreach and communications strategies, including monitoring social media, local event listings, and peer organizations’ websites.
• Attend and report on Asia-related events and meetings in Washington, both virtual and in-person.

Administrative Support:

• Provide support to administrative personnel to ensure the smooth functioning of the Washington office, including preparation for meetings, photocopying, phone coverage, and corresponding by email.
• Liaise with Senior Finance & Administration Manager, Office Manager, and local vendors to prepare requests for payment and draft letters of agreement, amendments, and other program-related financial documents.
• Assist with managing the DC office’s digital presence and liaise with contracted IT vendor and San-Francisco-based information services staff team as needed to assist DC colleagues and resolve issues.
• Manage the Washington office contact database via the Active Campaign platform
• Maintain paper and electronic files.
• Liaise with colleagues in San Francisco and Asian country offices to aid as needed
• Other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

Experience:

• Two years of administrative work experience in supporting program and policy-related activities and event-planning functions.
• knowledge of office procedures and equipment; familiarity with a variety of word-processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet programs.
• Experience with managing social media, operating virtual meeting platforms, and maintaining customer relationship management (CRM) systems or databases preferred.
• Work experience in an international development organization, non-profit, or government office, particularly those focused on Asia, preferred.

Education:

Bachelor’s Degree required preferably in the social sciences, international relations, Asian studies, or other similar concentration.

Other:

• Exceptional organizational skills.
• outstanding interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• ability to gracefully handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet all deadlines.
• ability to work independently and under pressure, as well as part of a team and with diverse staff.
• demonstrated initiative and creative problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of and interest in Asia and related policy issues preferred experience.

Why work at The Asia Foundation?

At a critical moment in history, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the development, stability, and growth of the Asia region. You will help promote a more constructive engagement between government and citizens and advance learning and awareness about The Asia Foundation. You will work with and learn from dedicated, smart, and accomplished colleagues and local partners and, in the process, improve your skills and expertise.

HOW TO APPLY:

Applications should be submitted by visiting our website: http://asiafoundation.org/about/careers/

And selecting “Regular Employment.” To be considered, please upload your cover letter and resume in one document. You can also upload both in separate documents but please note to do so; you will have to sign out of the system and go back into your record for additional documents.

The Asia Foundation offers excellent benefits and salaries commensurate with experience. We are an equal opportunity employer. Women and people of color are encouraged to apply.

**Must be legally eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship**.

**No relocation assistance will be provided for this position**.

No phone calls, please.