About Middle East Institute
Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute is the oldest Washington-based institution dedicated solely to the study of the Middle East. It is a non-partisan think tank providing expert policy analysis, educational and professional development services, and a hub for engaging with the region's arts and culture.
Position Title: Program and Events Manager
Status: Full-Time, Exempt
Location: On-Site | Washington, DC
Salary Range: $60,000- $75,000
The Middle East Institute (MEI) is seeking a Program and Events Manager to support its scholars, policy and cultural centers, and development team in planning and executing high-impact foreign policy events. This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the heart of a dynamic think tank that regularly hosts US and Middle East leaders, policymakers, academics, and analysts for discussions on regional policy, security, economic, social, and cultural issues.
The Program and Events Manager will help organize a range of events, including conferences, panel discussions, private briefings, roundtables, webinars, fundraising dinners, and other special programs, in collaboration with MEI’s center heads, and development staff.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage MEI’s master events calendar and handle all internal/external scheduling requests
- Lead the Events team in executing logistics: coordinate speakers, travel, accommodations, vendors, room setup, A/V, staffing plans and production
- Research invitees and maintain accurate contact lists
- Build and maintain targeted guest lists in Salesforce
- Draft marketing content and coordinate with Communications on event materials and design
- Design, build, and maintain event webpages using Drupal and WordPress platforms
- Oversee event registration, manage RSVP tracking, and archive attendance metrics for reporting and analysis.
- Analyze performance metrics to improve future events
- Support Policy Center event planning, identify strategic event opportunities, and contribute to long-term outreach initiatives.
- Coordinate logistics for three major policy conferences, in-person panels, webinars, delegation visits, and fundraising events
- Serve as point of contact for internal meeting room use, setup, and catering needs
- Track and report quarterly event budgets and expenditures, ensuring cost-effectiveness and financial accountability.
- Support A/B testing initiatives
- Handle the publications of event transcripts and summaries.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in international affairs, political science, Middle East studies, or related field
- 3-4 years of professional experience in event coordination
- Exceptional organizational, communication, and multitasking abilities
- Excellent writing and editing skills with strong attention to detail
- Strong interpersonal skills and collaborative mindset
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and maintain a client-focused attitude
- Willingness to work in-person with flexibility for irregular hours, including evenings and occasional weekends
- Proficiency in salesforce is required
- Knowledge of the Middle East is strongly preferred
- Basic graphic design, website content management, and photo/video editing
- Skills (InDesign, Adobe Creative Suite, Photoshop, and Canva) are preferred
Benefits
We offer a competitive range of benefits to support the well-being and professional growth of our team members, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
- 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions
- Life and disability insurance
- Employee assistance program (EAP)
- Commuter benefits
Disclaimer:
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Duties may be subject to change based on organizational needs.
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