We're seeking a Communications Officer for our Washington, DC, office:

Communications
Open Society Institute?Washington, D.C.

Application Deadline: June 18, 2012

The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant democracies whose governments are accountable to their citizens. To achieve this mission, the Foundations seek to shape public policies that assure greater fairness in political, legal, and economic systems and safeguard fundamental rights. On a local level, the Open Society Foundations implement a range of initiatives to advance justice, education, public health, and independent media. At the same time, we build alliances across borders and continents on issues such as corruption and freedom of information. The Foundations place a high priority on protecting and improving the lives of people in marginalized communities.

Investor and philanthropist George Soros established the Open Society Foundations, starting in 1984, to help countries make the transition from communism. Our activities have grown to encompass the United States and more than 70 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America.? Each Foundation relies on the expertise of boards composed of eminent citizens who determine individual agendas based on local priorities.

The OSF Washington Office conducts direct advocacy on a broad range of international and domestic issues, including human rights, civil liberties, drug policy, minority rights, public health, education, judicial independence, government transparency and criminal justice reform.

Purpose of Position

The Communications Officer will help devise and implement communications strategies and campaigns to promote the OSF Washington Office?s programs and advocacy goals. This position is housed in the Washington Office and is also part of the OSF Office of Communications.?The position reports to both the Director of the OSF Washington Office and the OSF Director of Public Affairs in New York.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following.? OSI may add, change, or remove essential and other duties at any time.

• Serve as the primary media contact point for the Washington Office;
• Write and edit press releases, publications, OpEds, blog posts and other written and electronic content;
• Assist with devising and implementing appropriate media strategies to support the Open Society Foundations? advocacy goals in Washington;
• Position OSF?s advocacy messages in print and online media;
• Manage Washington Office-related content on the OSF website;
• Collaborate with U.S. and international staff, including advocacy teams, in researching, writing, editing and promoting materials concerning domestic and international issues;
• Monitor the news relevant to the work of the Washington Office and advise OSF colleagues of important developments and media opportunities;
• Organize and publicize public events and press conferences related to OSF?s domestic and international agendas;
• Manage the Moving Walls photography exhibit when in Washington;
• Maintain close and effective collaboration with the NY communications staff, including monthly travel to staff meetings;
• Perform other duties as required;
• Travel may be required.

Education/Experience

Bachelor's degree (B.A./B.S.) from a four-year college or university and five to eight years relevant experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Washington advocacy work in a relevant field involving media outreach efforts;
• Experience implementing domestic and international communications and media campaigns, or in general Washington advocacy in a relevant field involving media outreach efforts;
• Experience with the Internet, website management, social media and new media expertise;
• Experience in social justice issues/public policy/communications/journalism necessary;
• Experience with mainstream and key media on OSF related topics;
• NGO experience preferred.

Skills Required

• Effectively manage to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, troubleshoot and follow projects through to completion, with strict deadlines and without loss of attention to detail, budget and reporting;
• Excellent written, verbal, organizational, public speaking, analytical and interpersonal skills;
• Excellent computer skills, proficient in Microsoft Office and experience with internet research and database management;
• Exercise good listening and communication skills with sensitivity to cultural communication differences;
• Effectively work as a team member and independently, with a high-level of self-motivation and ability to set and meet goals;
• Ability to function effectively within a collaborative environment;
• Demonstrated ability to synthesize diverse perspectives and prepare effective communication strategies;
• Ability and willingness to work simultaneously on a wide range of tasks and projects and to prioritize appropriately;
• Show discretion and ability to handle confidential issues;
• Knowledge of key organizations and networks active in the field;
• Cultural sensitivity and experience working with international partners;
• Pleasant, diplomatic manner and disposition in interacting with colleagues and the general public.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

Essential functions are typically performed in an office setting with a low level of noise.? Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Program Specific Requirements

• Advanced degree preferred;
• Excellent proofreading, editing and public speaking skills;
• High level of initiative and creativity;
• Interest in OSF program areas and/or knowledge of priority issues for OSF.
• Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations or relevant field preferred.

Start Date

ASAP ?

Compensation

Commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package.

To Apply

Please email resume and cover letter with salary requirements before June 18, 2012, to: humanresources@sorosny.org Include job code in subject line: COM-DC

OR

Open Society Foundations
Human Resources ? Code COM-DC
400 West 59th Street
New York, New York 10019

FAX: 646.557.2672

No phone calls, please. The Open Society Foundations is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

sf 49ers joe paterno died 49ers game ravens ray lewis steven tyler national anthem penn state