Rumi Forum is seeking a Public Affairs Specialist with a background in interdisciplinary research and outreach work for non-profit organizations.

Description: The primary responsibility of Public Affairs Specialist is to establish positive relationships with representatives of different communities and promote ideas of Interfaith Dialogue and Intercultural Understanding. Public Affairs Specialist will decide on research programs and methodologies based on the objectives, policies and needs of organization, and develop public affairs strategies that will improve the organization’s visibility through media outreach.

This position will work closely with Executive Director to undertake the planning, development and implementation of interfaith projects and events, as well as various community outreach programs, developing ideas for promoting goals of the Research center. Public Affairs Specialist will also be responsible for conducting and analyzing public opinion research to assess the effectiveness of promotional efforts and to offer adjustments or possible improvements.

Ideal candidate for the position will need a background in International Affairs, with experience in organizing outreach events for non-profit organizations being highly desirable, as this position will regularly fulfill such functions as mobilizing and leading volunteers in community activities with various faith groups.

Qualifications:

  • The individual must be highly organized and motivated and bring the following skills and qualifications:
    • At least a bachelor’s degree in public affairs or another communications field, such as international law or conflict resolution, with a background in outreach communications for non-profit organizations.
    • Demonstrated experience with project management.
    • Outstanding interpersonal communication and collaboration skills.
    • Demonstrated experience communicating with government authorities and civil organizations.
    • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to anticipate problems and proactively suggest solutions.
    • Excellent time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
    • Ability to seek out and develop new outreach opportunities.
Duties:
  • Assist the networking and publication efforts of the research and publication unit by developing press releases or other media communications.
  • Confer with organization management to resolve problems of meeting research objectives and deadlines, and to provide advice on strategic decisions.
  • Develop ideas for promoting goals of the Research center. Prepare and edit organizational publications, such as press releases and community outreach communications.
  • Conduct and analyze public opinion research to assess the effectiveness of promotional efforts and offer adjustments.
  • Decide on research programs and methodologies based on the objectives, policies and needs of organization. Develop public affairs strategies that will promote ideas of Interfaith Dialogue and Intercultural Understanding.
  • Manage the overall communication of the organization with public and private stakeholders by respond to requests for information from the media and managing informational content on the company’s Web site and social media outlets.
  • Improve the organization’s visibility through media outreach. Plan and oversee communications with media outlets in order to maintain favorable public opinion of organization’s goals, efforts and accomplishments in the sphere of Interfaith Dialogue.
  • Establish positive relationships with representatives of different communities. Mobilize and lead volunteers in community activities with various faith groups.

Education and training requirements: Bachelor’s Degree required; Master’s Degree preferred.

Location: Washington, DC

Application: Please send your detailed resume to info@rumiforum.org subject line: Public Affairs Specialist.