The Society for International Development (SID), a not-for-profit founded in Washington, D.C. in 1957, is a global forum of individuals and institutions concerned with sustainable economic, social and political development. The Washington, D.C. chapter of the Society for International Development (SID- Washington), the most active chapter worldwide and “the flagship” of the organization, is the professional association for individuals and institutions associated with international development in the greater Washington D.C. area.  SID-Washington’s mission is to advance equitable development by bringing diverse constituencies together to debate critical ideas, policies, and practices that will shape our global future.

The SID-Washington Communications/Program Officer will work closely with and report to the Executive Director with duties in the following areas: communications, program planning, and membership relations for SID-Washington.

RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to):

Communications:
• Conceptualize, research, write, design, and produce written products such as brochures, meeting and event summaries, event notices, articles, press releases, and website sections
• Coordinate the creation, design, and production of an online newsletter
• Write, edit, update and maintain organizational website
• Coordinate planned upgrade/redesign of website
• Develop public/media relations strategy and press contacts
• Produce other communications materials as needed

Programming:
• Conceptualize and develop new program ideas
• Assist with design, planning and organization of SID Washington programs and events including Annual Conference, Annual Dinner, and Career Conference
• Assist with programming of Monthly Chapter events as well as Workgroup events

Membership relations and outreach:
• Draft prospective member letters and e-mails
• Assist with fundraising, sponsorship initiatives and membership outreach, and proposal writing
• Assist in the development of partnerships with other organizations

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree required (preferably in political science, international relations, economics, communications, or other social science)
• Graduate degree in international relations or international development preferred
• At least 4 years work experience (preferably in international development field)
• Overseas work experience preferred
• Candidate should have superior writing, editing, and verbal communication skills including the ability to communicate clearly and concisely
• Proficiency in MS Office, specifically MS Word and PowerPoint
• Knowledge of desktop publishing, Web-based communications, and website design and maintenance preferred
• Demonstrated capacity for creative and independent thinking and judgment.
• Ability to solve problems creatively, undertake detail oriented work, and work well as a member of a team
• Able to handle multiple tasks and deadlines with limited supervision in a fast-paced environment and retain a positive outlook under pressure
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills

Compensation will be competitive for the non-profit field and will be commensurate with experience.

To apply: please send a CV and cover letter detailing your interest in this position via post (SID-Washington, 1875 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 720, Washington, DC 20009), email:  sid@aed.org with “Communications/Program Officer” in the subject line and your contact details in the body or fax: (202) 884-8499.  No phone calls please. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Deadline for applications: May 30, 2008