Communications & Media Coordinator

Middle East Institute•Washington, DC

3d•$55,000 - $60,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Middle East Institute is seeking a proactive, detail-oriented Communications and Media Coordinator to oversee day-to-day media relations and content production for the Institute. This individual will serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, with support from the Senior Director, while managing the rollout of MEI products and publications across all digital platforms, including the website and social media. The Coordinator will play a central role in publicizing organizational events and securing strategic media placement and digital amplification for MEI's events and policy products. This position requires a versatile communicator who is comfortable working across written, visual, and digital formats, and who can respond quickly and effectively in a fast-moving news environment relevant to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, International Affairs, or a related field.
1–3 years of relevant professional experience in media relations, communications, journalism, or digital content production.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong editorial judgment, with the ability to distill a wide range of information into clear, compelling narratives for varied audiences.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
Familiarity with MENA regional affairs and current events.

Nice To Haves

Experience with media monitoring tools, Salesforce, or similar CRM platforms.
Experience tracking media coverage and compiling analytics reports.
Experience with photography, A/V event support, or podcast production.
Experience with Adobe Suite, or other video/audio editing platforms.
Prior experience supporting think tanks, nonprofits, or policy-focused organizations.

Responsibilities

Serve as a primary point of contact for media inquiries and interview requests.
Track and log MEI and MEI fellow media mentions across print, broadcast, and online outlets.
Compile regular media and social media analytics reports for senior leadership, tracking reach, engagement, and placement trends.
Produce a daily press roundup summarizing relevant news, analysis, and commentary on the MENA region.
Monitor breaking news for opportunities relevant to MEI's experts and research.
Develop and execute proactive rapid response communications in coordination with senior staff and subject matter experts.
Pitch and place op-eds with media outlets on behalf of MEI scholars.
Support the Senior Director in developing a strategy for the rollout of MEI products and publications, including reports, briefs, and scholar commentary.
Create web and digital media content that amplifies the work of MEI's experts and research.
Oversee social media strategy and ensure consistent digital amplification of the Institute’s output.
Manage the digital content calendar around major publications, events, and holidays.
Maintain website updates related to communications and events content.
Draft opening remarks, talking points, and other written materials for MEI leadership.
Write and produce institutional collateral, newsletters, press releases, and announcements.
Support the Senior Director for Communications and Events on broader communications strategy.
Develop and coordinate publicity efforts around MEI events and convenings.
Provide event photography and A/V support as needed.
Support podcast production and editing.
Build and manage campaigns and contact lists in Salesforce to support outreach and distribution.
Maintain accurate records, documentation, and operational procedures related to communications activities.
Identify opportunities to improve communications efficiency and impact.
Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.