PROGRAMS OPERATIONS & EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

MERCATUS CENTER INC

4h•Onsite

About The Position

The Mercatus Center seeks a bright and motivated Operations Associate & Executive Assistant to join the Research & Programs team. As the primary executive support for the Senior Vice President of Research and programs, you will provide comprehensive administrative and strategic assistance, managing complex schedules, coordinating communications, and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. In addition to executive support, you will contribute to programmatic activities across the team, including event preparation, project logistics, and a wide range of administrative tasks. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, proactive problem-solving, and discretion when handling sensitive information. The ideal candidate communicates effectively with stakeholders at all levels, manages competing priorities with ease, and demonstrates a strong commitment to the mission of the Mercatus Center. You’ll also have the opportunity to develop your professional skillset and work toward your own career goals. The team encourages advancement through university courses at George Mason University and other professional development opportunities; this is a great position and team environment for someone interested in pursuing an advanced degree. This position reports to the Program Manager at Research & Programs and works primarily at the office on the Fairfax, VA campus, with frequent visits to the Arlington, VA campus.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
1-2 years of experience in a professional staff support role
Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills
Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills
Proficiency with MS Office
Demonstrated ability to multitask and balance multiple short- and long-term projects
Ability to show initiative and creativity in improving regular processes and in developing new ones
Effective communicator
Strong writing and editing skills
Ability to handle sensitive information with integrity and confidentiality
Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team
Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities
Interest in economics, classical liberalism, and public policy

Nice To Haves

1-2 years of experience in an executive support role, preferably in a nonprofit environment
Experience in content creation (web, social media, podcasts, etc.)
Experience in copyediting

Responsibilities

Manage the Senior VP's calendars, including scheduling meetings, appointments, and making travel arrangements. Ensure the Senior VP is well-prepared for all engagements by providing timely and accurate information.
Serve as a point of contact between the Senior VP and internal/external stakeholders. Draft, review, and send communications on behalf of the Senior VP. Handle confidential information with discretion.
Organize and coordinate meetings, including agenda preparation, document distribution, and logistics as needed. Take minutes and follow up on action items as necessary.
Assist in the planning and execution of team-wide projects, programs, and events. Track progress, coordinate with team members, and report updates to the Senior VP.
Conduct research on topics related to the team's goals and prepare reports, presentations, and briefs to support decision-making.
Assist with budget preparation and monitoring. Process expense reports and invoices, ensuring compliance with organizational policies.
Provide administrative support for talent programs, including staffing events (which includes evening and weekend events) and preparing materials, assisting with recruiting efforts, and helping with the scheduling and administrative needs of program leads and scholars.
Contribute to office management for the Fairfax office by sharing reception desk duties and assisting in day-to-day operations, including facilities maintenance, office and kitchen supply inventory, and presenting a professional office appearance.
Assist with creating content and publications, including website copy, social media posts, and podcasts, as well as copyediting manuscripts, journal articles, and other research products.