About InterAction
InterAction is the largest coalition of international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in the U.S. with nearly 190 members working in every developing country. Members are large and small, secular and faith-based, with a focus on people living in the world’s most poor and vulnerable places. The U.S. public, foundations, and governments support the work of our member NGOs that collectively invest and manage more than $18 billion a year. InterAction revenues come from dues, and grants from foundations, corporations, and governments. Using its collective voice and convening power, InterAction seeks to shape important policy decisions on a wide range of issues – including foreign assistance, humanitarian relief, development, economic equity, food security, and climate change – that advance human dignity, human potential, and self-determination.
Position Summary
The Special Assistant supports the substantive work of the Chief Executive Officer in interfacing with external audiences and managing special projects. This includes supporting InterAction initiatives and other projects, drafting/refining correspondence, policy documents, talking points, blogs, articles, and other communications in collaboration with the CEO. Assists with project management and facilitation of NGO Futures, an InterAction initiative to revolutionize NGO ability to adapt to change and shape a global future where all thrive. The Special Assistant will liaise with external stakeholders on a regular basis, and support the planning and execution of high-level events on behalf of the Executive Office. This person will also assist in special projects of the Executive Office, including the President, fundraising efforts, and other initiatives that are of strategic importance to the organization.
Qualifications Required
Bachelor’s degree in relevant field
Two to three years professional experience in international policy, development, public administration, public policy, or business
Project management skills
Exceptional writing skills
Critical and analytical skills
Strong interpersonal communication skills
Ability to communicate and work in a smart, professional manner
Well-developed research skills, including the ability to quickly assess, analyze and frame information
Flexibility and adaptability when managing several projects simultaneously
Demonstrated ability to rapidly gain a solid understanding of complex issues
Advanced skills in Microsoft Office suite of programs
Qualifications Desired
Experience supporting or working closely with busy Executives
Master’s degree in in relevant field
Broad knowledge of U.S. NGO sector and/or experience in the nonprofit sector
Experience writing content for widespread distribution
Familiarity with Salesforce or other CRM platform
Essential Functions
Support strategic Executive Office initiatives (for example, NGO Futures, organizational strategic planning, and strategic pledges); Ensure forward movement towards project goals, and report out on progress to CEO.
Conduct research on or draft materials as needed by the CEO, and Executive Office Team, often under tight deadlines.
Help plan, manage, and organize events for NGO Futures work streams, trainings, and convenings.
Maintain and cultivate relationships with key external stakeholders in shaping and managing strategic initiatives.
Serve as a liaison, and interface with the leadership of various teams within InterAction to facilitate efficient information exchange between InterAction teams and the Executive Office.
Assist with Executive communications and handle sensitive inquiries of important constituents.
Manage the development of correspondence, materials, blogs, articles and talking points for the Chief Executive Officer.
Support the planning and execution of high-level special events.
As needed, track relationships established through high-level meetings or engagements, and identify possible connections to InterAction’s objectives and goals for possible follow up.
Work cooperatively and collaboratively with the InterAction teams to support the work of the CEO, President and Executive Office, including – but not limited to – the NGO Futures initiative, Monthly Leadership Report, Partner Vetting System, Pledges, the InterAction Forum, the CEO Retreat, CEO task forces, co-led initiatives with other teams, and other special projects or initiatives.
Other Duties
Work with other InterAction staff in support of the work of the entire organization.
Coordinate Executive Office interns as needed.
Take on new tasks, as directed by the Chief Executive Officer, to meet the needs of a dynamic and growing organization.
Success Factors
This position requires the ability to learn and digest information rapidly and produce outputs with limited turnaround. The incumbent must be flexible, be able to thrive in a fast-paced environment, and rapidly prioritize often competing demands/deadlines. The position requires the ability to synthesize complex and sensitive issues, and tailor language and messages to a variety of audiences. A successful incumbent will be entrepreneurial and on-the-lookout for strategic partnerships and opportunities for which InterAction and its CEO should take advantage.
Physical Requirements
Duties are conducted in a traditional office environment. There are no extraordinary physical requirements for the performance of the essential functions of this position. InterAction will make reasonable accommodation to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Salary & Benefits
InterAction provides competitive salaries and excellent benefits.
How to Apply
Please send your application materials to jobs@interaction.org. Applicants should submit a resume and cover letter.
Position is open until filled, but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Due to the expected volume of applications, only finalists will be notified. All applicants must be able to provide documentation that they are legally eligible to work in the United States for an extended period of time. No phone calls please.