Program Assistant - Africa Peacebuilding and Developmental Dynamics

Social Science Research Council•New York, NY

20d•Onsite

About The Position

The Social Science Research Council (SSRC) is an independent, international, nonprofit organization devoted to the advancement of interdisciplinary research in the social sciences through a wide variety of workshops, meetings and conferences, fellowships and grants, training institutes, scholarly exchanges, research, and publications. The African Peacebuilding and Developmental Dynamics program (APDD) advances African-led research and scholarship on peacebuilding, governance, and developmental changes in conflict-affected countries and sub-regions in Africa. The program responds to the evolving geographies of conflict, development, and inequality on the continent—examining economic, environmental, and political trends, the emergence and dynamics of new actors, and the interplay between local and external factors driving socio-economic transformations, conflict trajectories and evolving peacebuilding responses.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in social sciences preferred.
1-2 years administrative, research, or related work experience in a nonprofit or academic environment preferred.
Previous work experience with, or detailed knowledge of, Africa and peacebuilding preferred.
Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills and a high degree of professionalism are essential.
Excellent writing and organizational skills, with strong attention to detail.
Experience and/or familiarity with web and database development and maintenance preferred.
Demonstrated ability to take initiative and respond flexibly to changing demands.
Proficiency in MS Office (including Word, Excel, Outlook), database management, and Internet applications.
Ability to multitask and prioritize daily activities to meet competing deadlines.
Ability and willingness to travel internationally (10%).

Nice To Haves

Photography and graphic design skills a plus.

Responsibilities

Support with the overall administration of the program.
Assist with the selection and administrative processes for program awards and agreements, including maintaining a database of contacts, fellows, committee members and related correspondence.
Organize on- and off-site workshops and meetings. This includes handling logistical support, preparing meeting agendas and other relevant meeting materials, and coordinating and facilitating correspondence with participants and all relevant constituents during workshops and meetings.
Serve as rapporteur for program workshops and meetings, which will include taking minutes of complex discussions, drafting event summaries, etc.
Assist with the production of advertising and outreach materials.
Help expand the program’s online presence, which includes managing and updating program web pages and social media applications.
Assist with digital media projects, such as blogs, podcasts, and social media postings on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Flickr.
Assist with drafting program narrative and financial reports, and proposals.
Maintain contact lists and databases and manage APDD files and records.
Work with budgets and financial reports and process and reconcile expenses against budgets.
Other duties and additional responsibilities and projects as directed.