Special Assistant to the President

People For the American Way is a national organization dedicated to defending constitutional rights and promoting the democratic values of citizen participation, freedom of expression, freedom of religion and equal opportunity for all.

This position requires a high level of competence and commitment, as well as a wide range of administrative, communications, and management skills. The Special Assistant works in a fast-paced environment and must be flexible and available to work additional hours, when needed. This position is located in Washington DC and reports to the President.

Responsibilities:

·        Manage the efficient and effective administrative operation of all aspects of the President’s office, including:

• Maintain the President’s calendar and heavy travel schedule, coordinating arrangements, as needed,
• Coordinate the preparation for meetings and events,
• Process all correspondence to and from the President’s office, including the drafting of selected correspondence, memoranda and reports,
• Answer phone calls to President’s office and ensure prompt response to inquiries.

·        Liaise with the Board of Directors and their staffs, manage preparation and set-up/logistics of Board meetings, coordinate mailings to the Board, record and transcribe minutes of Board meetings.

·        Facilitate communication between the President’s office and People For programs and departments.

·        Coordinate special projects, as directed by the President and Chief Operating Officer.

·        Coordinate the preparation and organization of research and briefing materials required by the President.

·        Maintain lists, files and calendars for Board activities.

Qualifications:

·        5+ years’ experience supporting President level staff or organizational leader.

·        Previous administrative support experience in a fast-paced work environment.

·        Excellent oral and written communication skills.

·        Ability to organize schedules and information efficiently with exceptional attention to detail.

·        Ability to work easily and effectively with a variety of people.

·        Self-starter with ability to work both independently and with direction.

·        Ability to manage multiple priorities, competing requests, and frequent deadlines.

·        Willingness to work additional hours, often without advance notice.

·        Discretion, mature judgment and good problem solving skills.

·        Strong proofreading and editing skills.

·        Interest in progressive issues and commitment to public interest work.

·        Experience on Capitol Hill or in political/advocacy organization preferred

·        Sense of humor and flexible attitude.