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The Brookings Institution is a nonprofit public policy organization based in Washington, DC. Our mission is to conduct in-depth research that leads to new ideas for solving problems facing society at the local, national and global level.
We bring together leading experts in government and academia from all over the world, rooted in open-minded inquiry and representing diverse points of view, who provide the highest quality research, policy recommendations, and analysis. Research topics cover a full range of public policy issues in economics, foreign policy, development, governance and metropolitan policy.
With fair and transparent business practices, clear communication, mutual respect, and a collaborative atmosphere that offers both professional and personal development opportunities, Brookings offers an inclusive and welcoming workplace that values the efforts of all contributors.
About the Economic Studies Program: The Economic Studies program analyzes current and emerging economic issues facing the United States and the world and, based on that research, provides innovative, practical policy recommendations. ES’s work covers a broad array of economic issues, including economic growth, economic opportunity and mobility, the labor market, regulation, health policy, the environment, tax policy, retirement policy, and fiscal and monetary policy. Economic Studies scholars influence key economic policies by conducting rigorous and relevant research and then disseminating and communicating their findings to the policy community and to the broader public.
Position Location: This position is hybrid. Hybrid positions combine regular in-person presence at our Washington, DC office with the option of two days of remote work each week.
Ready to contribute to Brookings success?
The Assistant to the Vice President of Economics Studies provides high-level administrative support for the Vice President & Director of the Brookings Economic Studies Program (VP). In addition, provides general administrative support and office management to meet the operational needs of ES and coordinates special projects. Primary responsibilities include managing the VP’s complex calendar, including all internal and external scheduling, activities, commitments and deadlines, as well as travel arrangements and expense processing.
Scheduling, Travel, and Administrative Support (75%)
Serves as central point of contact for internal and external requests to the VP’s office; uses judgment to identify opportunities and anticipate problems, suggest solutions.
Manages daily schedules and calendars; processes all internal and external requests for meetings and speaking engagements with guidance from VP.
Maintains frequent contact and works closely to coordinate the goals/projects/priorities of the VP.
Maintains key peer-level relationships across Brookings and with external key audiences to support effective calendar maintenance.
Arranges internal and external meetings as requested by VP, including greeting external guests who are meeting with the VP on campus.
Ensure the VP is given and reviews all necessary materials in preparation for meetings and other activities, and that the VP remains on track for activities and events that occur during the day.
Drafts talking points and coordinates with the VP’s research assistant on presentation materials ahead of speaking engagements.
Arranges travel and prepares itineraries; processes reimbursements; verifies procurement card charges; collects and organizes logistical and briefing materials for meetings and travel.
Provides partners with necessary background, contact information, and assistance to execute travel logistics.
Works with communications, development, and other teams to schedule media interviews, funder stewardship, speaking engagements, and other special events.
Manages sensitive information and materials with discretion.
Receives, screens, and routes phone calls; receives and disseminates information related to projects; responds to inquiries from the public; receives staff and visitors.
Attends meetings to take notes or minutes, as requested.
Coordinates annual reports and annual performance review meetings with the VP for all scholars.
Works with communication team to ensure that the VP’s web page is updated and accurate and in compliance with conflict-of-interest disclosures.
Office Coordination and Program Support (25%)
Monitor program facilities, equipment, and supplies, and serve as primary contact for related staff requests.
Manage procurement of supplies and equipment and ensure that program facilities and equipment are well-maintained.
Serve as principal liaison to Procurement Office, Facilities, Mailroom, and front desk staff.
Proactively tracks status of VP’s priorities and projects, as requested.
Assist in the planning, execution, and monitoring of special projects and initiatives led by the VP.
Coordinates necessary logistics for events requested by VP (internal and all staff programming, general meetings, job talks/interviews, and private events).
Manage conference room calendars and keep conference rooms and other ES public areas neat and organized.
Provides support for the Economic Studies management team on an as-needed basis, including assisting with administrative duties and management team meetings.
Other duties, as assigned.
Ready to make an impact? In this role, you will support Brookings values of collegiality, respect, inclusion, diversity and community, and bring the following qualifications:
Education/Experience Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Minimum two years of experience providing scheduling and special assistance to an executive, including a history of implementing best practice administrative assistant systems. A successful candidate will have professional experience that demonstrates strong organizational skills and an ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly and with exceptional attention to detail. Work experience in a fast-paced environment required; background in a research or academic setting strongly preferred. Office management experience preferred. Orientation to administration as a professional field preferred. Must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S.
Knowledge/Skill Requirements:
Microsoft Office experience with advanced knowledge of Outlook required. Comfort with learning new software/tools preferred. Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to manage multiple tasks, set priorities, and adjust to shifting priorities. Ability to work independently and with a team; ability to complete tasks with minimal supervision. Initiative, poise, mature judgment, and meticulous attention to detail. Ability to interact with high profile individuals and their designees with confidence. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
Additional Information
What can we offer you? Brookings provides a generous benefit package that is comprehensive and includes both traditional benefits and unique offerings. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision benefits, generous time off, and workplace flexibility. For more information, please visit Brookings Benefits.
Brookings requires that all applicants submit a cover letter and resume. Please attach your cover letter and resume as one document when you apply. Please note: if you have applied to more than one Brookings job opening you should add a position-specific cover letter as a separate attachment.
Successful completion of a background investigation is required for employment at Brookings.
Brookings welcomes and celebrates diversity in all its forms, including diversity of experience, thought, and personal background. We welcome applications that reflect a variety of backgrounds based on ideology, race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, first generation college goers, and other factors protected by law. Brookings is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace. All selection decisions are based upon merit, skills, abilities and experience.
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