The Aspen Institute

The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization committed to realizing a free, just, and equitable society. Since its founding in 1949, the Institute has been driving change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve the most critical challenges facing communities in the United States and around the world. Headquartered in Washington, DC, the Institute has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, and an international network of partners.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

To achieve our mission of a more free, just, and equitable society, we commit to working proactively to advance the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion across our myriad endeavors such as the recruitment, compensation, training, and advancement of staff. The best people-serving institutions make this commitment, and we seek to be a leader in the ways that we do so and learn from others. Visit our website to learn more about our commitment and recent actions taken toward building and nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment.

Program Description:

The Aspen Institute’s International Partners network has 13 partners operating in 15 countries – with 8 partners in Europe, and in Japan, India, Mexico, Colombia, and New Zealand. Since the first partner launched in 1974, each partner creates change in their communities through unique programming that remains true to the Aspen mission and idea of values-based leadership to foster a free, just, and equitable society. Now more than ever, the network plays a critical role to foster civil dialogue amongst people from different backgrounds in a time of increasing polarization across the globe.

Basic Function:

 As the Associate Director for Engagement, you will play a pivotal role in connecting the Aspen Institute's network of International Partners to the many programs of the Aspen Institute. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, you will be responsible for identifying, cultivating, and managing relationships with key institute stakeholders, programs, and projects to connect them to the relevant partners and build new opportunities for collaboration. You will be part of a small and nimble team, and thus this position will require the ability to work independently while navigating a complex organization.

This new position will connect the International Partners work to the Institute’s strategic plan, our program’s priorities, and our mission. This position will also be responsible for building out a robust communications platform to inform and engage partners, tell stories of impact, and create a shared understanding of vision and priorities.

This position reports to the  Executive Director. The salary range for this position is $120,000 - $130,000. The expectation is for this role to be in our D.C. office a minimum of 2x a week to collaborate with colleagues.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Program Development: Identify, research, and evaluate potential Aspen Institute programs that are aligned with the Aspen partners mission and objectives. Develop and implement strategies to initiate and strengthen partnerships.
• Relationship Management: Serve as the primary point of contact for International Partners working with Aspen US programs. Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and potential partners through regular communication, meetings, and events.
• Collaboration Facilitation: Work collaboratively with internal teams, including program directors, communications, and development staff, to identify opportunities for collaboration with International Partners. Facilitate cross-functional teamwork to ensure successful partnership outcomes.
• Proposal Development: Lead the development of partnership proposals with funders and corporate partners, including project concepts, budgets, and timelines, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. Ensure proposals align with the goals and priorities of both the Aspen Institute and the Institute’s partner.
• Contract Negotiation and Management: Oversee the negotiation MOU’s, partnership agreements, and contracts. Ensure compliance with legal and organizational requirements and manage ongoing partnership activities to ensure objectives are met.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish metrics to measure the effectiveness and impact of international partnerships. Regularly monitor and evaluate partnership activities and provide reports to stakeholders as needed.
• Program Management: Foster collaborative relationships between Aspen US and International Partners by overseeing the implementation and growth of the International Partnership Collaboration (IPC) program, facilitating cross-cultural exchanges, sharing of best practices, and mutual learning experiences aimed at enhancing organizational synergies and understanding.
• Fund Management: Spearhead the administration of a dedicated fund aimed at enabling Aspen International Partners to host Socrates Seminars, ensuring efficient allocation of resources, timely disbursement of grants, and adherence to funding guidelines and objectives to foster intellectual dialogue and exchange within diverse global communities.
• Communications: Work with the Executive Director to establish long-term goals and strategies for elevating the International Partners profile and engage in strategic communications planning for partners throughout the network.

Knowledge, Education, and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree related to international affairs (master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 6-8 years of experience in partnership development, fundraising, or related roles, preferably in an international context.
• Proven track record of building and maintaining successful partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence individuals at all levels.
• Excellent organizational and project management abilities, with a keen attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Knowledge of international affairs, global development issues, and cultural sensitivity.
• Proficiency in languages other than English is a plus.
• Willingness to travel internationally as needed.

The Aspen Institute offers a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, and prescription benefits, retirement benefits, and paid leave.

The Aspen Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all District and federal laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or protected veteran or disabled status and will not be discriminated against.

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