Communications and Outreach Manager (onsite)

About Middle East Institute
Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute is the oldest Washington-based institution dedicated solely to the study of the Middle East. It is a non-partisan think tank providing expert policy analysis, educational and professional development services, and a hub for engaging with the region’s arts and culture.

The Middle East Institute (MEI) is seeking a Communications and Outreach Manager to support our policy and cultural centers, as well as our development and outreach teams, in developing and executing strategies that promote MEI’s work and strengthen our policy engagement with Congress, the Executive Branch, foreign embassies, and the broader policymaking community. The Communications and Outreach Manager will play a key role in expanding MEI’s visibility, broadening our network across diverse initiatives, and enhancing the Institute’s ability to reach and engage wider audiences. The ideal candidate will be energetic, highly motivated, and collaborative, with a demonstrated aptitude for digital communications and outreach strategies, and a strong interest in public policy. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the center of a dynamic, mission-driven think tank and contribute directly to advancing MEI’s impact and reach.

What you’ll do
Support MEI’s VP for Outreach to strengthen engagement with the policymaking community

Identify and pursue opportunities within Washington’s policy networks

Develop outreach materials, including print and web content

Build and maintain relationships with foreign embassies, NGOs, and partner organizations

Collaborate with the Communications team to promote policy-focused content and flagship events

Oversee the development of MEI’s Annual Report, managing writing, editing, and design

Ensure cohesive themes and messaging across events and initiatives

Maintain targeted topical and country-specific distribution lists

Research and recommend partnership and collaboration opportunities

Coordinate messaging and outreach with the Events team on public-facing programs

Track and analyze engagement metrics

Create quarterly impact reports

Support A/B testing efforts

Provide overall support for communications, outreach, and events initiatives

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Experience on the Hill, Executive Branch, or US policy-oriented NGOs required

Strong knowledge of US policy process required

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in international affairs, political science, Middle East studies, or related field

4-5 years of professional experience

Outstanding oral and written communications skills

Proficiency in Salesforce is preferred

Knowledge of the Middle East is strongly preferred

Willingness to work in-person with flexibility for irregular hours, including evenings and occasional weekends

Ability to remain calm under pressure and maintain a client-focused attitude

Strong interpersonal skills and collaborative mindset

Exceptional organizational, communication, and multitasking abilities

Strong attention to detail

Benefits
We offer a competitive range of benefits to support the well-being and professional growth of our team members, including:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays

403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions

Life and disability insurance

Employee assistance program (EAP)

Commuter benefits

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Duties may be subject to change based on organizational needs.

The pay range for this role is: 65,000 – 80,000 USD per year (Washington, DC)

Learn more here