About us
The Renew Democracy Initiative (RDI) is dedicated to creating a movement based on rational discourse and political liberalism, both of which have come under threat from across the political spectrum. Founded by a diverse, cross-partisan group of leaders, including former world chess champion Garry Kasparov; Senators Heidi Heitkamp and Bob Kerrey; and Pulitzer Prize winners Anne Applebaum and Bret Stephens, we are committed to data-driven decision-making and combatting the twin threats of far-right and far-left radicalism. Our Board and extended network give us unique credibility and a global perspective as we educate people about core liberal principles and empower them to prioritize these values in their civic behavior.
About the role
This role will work directly with the Executive Director and will serve as a generalist, providing administrative, logistical, and programmatic support to a variety of RDI projects and undertakings. Ultimately, as a start-up, we have an “all hands on deck” mentality and all team members have the opportunity to gain wide exposure; we don’t believe in the phrase: “That’s not my job.”
Responsibilities
- General project management and ensuring that RDI priorities are effectively executed in a timely manner
- Keep track of concurrent projects, both large and small, and proactively calling attention to possible problems before they arise
- Support the Executive Director with effective calendar management, meeting preparation, and follow-up on outstanding action items
- Manage a team of up to 15 seasonal interns, including all elements of recruitment & onboarding
- Maintain a well-organized Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system, and oversee all aspects of email-based outreach to RDI’s network of supporters
- Conceptualize events and coordinate with a number of stakeholders to execute on them
- Work with external partners such as NGOs, influencers, & high-profile political figures to advance RDI’s mission
- Assist the Executive Director with development activities, including keeping track of donor contacts & meetings, developing lists of prospects, and donor stewardship
- Provide general administrative support to the RDI team as needed including management of expenses and developing & maintaining a well-organized shared filing system
- Manage the basics of maintaining the RDI website (in conjunction with others who have more WordPress expertise)
- Work on other special projects as they arise
Qualifications
- Demonstrated interest in and commitment to RDI’s mission, work and values
- Able to work well with minimal supervision at a small, nimble start-up in an unpredictable environment
- Highly organized and uniquely detail-oriented
- B.A. required, with 2+ years of work experience in a fast-paced setting
- Strict confidentiality and discretion when working on sensitive material with high-profile individuals and public figures
- Broad-based political knowledge and interest in promoting liberal democracy & civics education
- Open-minded and interested in learning from those with whom you may disagree
- Strong interpersonal & team-building skills, with a focus on effective communication
- Experience with CRM systems, especially EveryAction / NGP VAN, is a plus
Logistics & Benefits
- We offer a competitive salary, flexible hours, paid time off, and unique opportunities for ongoing professional development, along with other benefits
- All positions are currently remote, but will eventually be based in New York City unless otherwise indicated
- U.S. work authorization required
- Willingness to work outside 9-5 and sometimes on weekends is required
Please send a resume, cover letter, and short writing sample (~500 words) on a political, historical, or related topic to apply@rdi.org. In the subject line, please write “Program Associate” followed by your full name.
The Renew Democracy Initiative is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
