Seasonal Program Officer

We are seeking an experienced program officer to manage a set of fast-paced international exchange program implementation and business development activities.

The Seasonal Program Officer serves the GlobalConnect Division for specified periods of time of at least 2-4 weeks intermittently and for up to 6-12 months and is responsible for planning and implementing international exchange programs for youth, students and professionals funded by USG and private sector clients. In consultation with clients, the Seasonal Program Officer designs and implements U.S. itineraries for youth, business, and professional delegations, arranges meetings and training activities in Washington D.C., initiates and oversees the program content in other cities, and monitors all fiscal and administrative matters. In addition, the Program Officer may assist with business development activities, including project conception, research, design and proposal development for USG and private sector clients.

Primary duties include:

• developing and implementing short-term professional exchange programs throughout the U.S. for incoming international delegations, including youth groups, on a broad range of topics;
• developing concepts and writing proposals for exchange programs for existing and new public and private sector clients;
• working with our team to develop and implement strategies and proposals to secure financial or in-kind support from foundations, corporations and other private funders.

Specifically, the program officer will:

• Design and implement assigned exchange programs using guidance provided by the client. Determine what is required, balanced and appropriate content, including suitable pacing and geographic balance, for each program.
• Coordinate the development of the program in cooperation with the client, participants, interpreters, and administrative support.
• Oversee and monitor local programs carried out in other US cities by members of the National Council for International Visitors (NCIV) and/or other partners.
• Maintain open channels of communication during each program with clients, promptly informing them of all significant developments.
• Provide supervision, guidance and professional counsel to a Program Associate, who carries out the administrative support functions.
• Conduct basic research and identify program resources such as relevant speakers and institutions.
• Design and conduct program monitoring and evaluation plans, per grant and contract stipulations. Write and submit high quality project reports to clients, meeting all deadlines.
• Work effectively under the pressure of time constraints and the high visibility of these programs.
• Communicate clearly and effectively in spoken and written form.
• Manage various sizes and complexities of programs on a variety of themes.
• Maintain well-organized paper and electronic files, tracking sheets and other project management tools to ensure all program activities are well-coordinated and flow smoothly. Meet all deadlines.
• Insure fiscal responsibility through close supervision of project budgets and expenses, ensuring all activities and expenditures are in compliance with grants, contracts and federal regulations.

Qualifications

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• Master’s degree and five years of relevant program experience or an equivalent of education and experience.
• At least five years experience in international education, exchanges or training programs. Experience with USG-funded exchange programs a plus.
• Broad knowledge of American society, culture, history, geography, economy and government; Well-informed regarding current events.
• Overseas study or work experience preferred.
• Experience in a fluctuating work environment with constantly changing needs and demands; proven ability to problem solve with staff and to encourage consistent, solid performance;
• Demonstrated ability to develop solid working relationships with overseas and domestic partners.
• Strong organizational skills, including task and time management. Proven ability to take responsibility, initiative, be flexible and work independently;
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks, coordinate activities in multiple locations, and to be responsive, meet deadlines, and act decisively in daily work;
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to play an active role in team environment essential;
• Excellent written and spoken English language skills; facility in one or more foreign languages desired.
• Strong inter-cultural communication skills. Maturity, cultural sensitivity and tact suitable for working with individuals of influence and prestige from around the world.
• Excellent computer skills to include word processing and spreadsheet software.

Contact Details

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Contact:

Gretchen Ehle

Telephone:

202-939-5542

Email:

gehle@meridian.org

Application Instructions

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Please send coverletter and resume to gehle@meridian.org. No phone calls, please. Only candidates selected for interview will be contacted.