ABOUT US

The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization committed to realizing a free, just, and equitable society. Since its founding in 1949, the Institute has been driving change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve the most critical challenges facing communities in the United States and around the world. Headquartered in Washington, DC, the Institute has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, and an international network of partners.

POLICY PROGRAMS

The Aspen Institute's 25 policy programs foster non-partisan, cross-sector solutions to complex societal issues through dialogue, leadership facilitation, convenings, and research. Key areas include global and technological development, economic opportunity and equality, environmental issues, and social trust.

ABOUT THIS ROLE

The Managing Director, Policy Programs plays a critical role in ensuring effective coordination, reporting, governance activities, and administration of Policy Programs, the largest personnel and financial sector of the Aspen Institute. This position requires a high level of confidentiality, strong strategic thinking, and operational expertise. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, and capable of managing multiple priorities while supporting leadership and program directors.

This position reports directly to the Vice President, Policy Programs. The salary range for this position is $200,000 - $220,000. In accordance with our Reimagining Work policy, the Managing Director should be willing to be in-person with colleagues a minimum of 40% of the time while having the flexibility to work remotely for the balance.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Represent Policy Programs and support cross-functional collaboration across internal divisions including Leadership, Center for Rising Generations, Aspen Meadows management, People and Culture, Legal Services, and financial operations.

• Assist with preparation and implementation of professional development programming, annual retreats, and monthly meetings for more than two dozen Policy Program Directors (PPDs).

• Attend relevant committee meetings of the Board of Trustees with the EVP of Policy Programs.

• In consultation with the EVP for Policy Programs, manage and update the Policy Program administrative budget.

• Manage a scholarship allocation process, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and alignment with Institute requirements.

• Develop a strong understanding of Aspen Institute Internal Policy, including participation in an internal policy advisory group.

• Support Committee of the Board of Trustees meetings by preparing comprehensive materials and drafting agendas and speakers

WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO THRIVE

• 15+ years’ experience in operations, program management, or administrative leadership roles.

• Strong analytical and reporting skills.

• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

• Excellent organizational and time management skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience preparing executive or Board-level reports preferred.

• Familiarity with HR processes and performance evaluation cycles are preferred.

• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and deadlines effectively preferred.

• Proficiency in document management and reporting tools preferred.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Aspen Institute offers a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, and prescription benefits, retirement benefits, and paid leave.

The Aspen Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all District and federal laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or protected veteran or disabled status and will not be discriminated against.

The Aspen Institute welcomes individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs, including the interview process. If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about accessibility, please email hrsupport@aspeninstitute.org or call 202-736-2127 in advance of your visit. Requests for ASL or CART services should be made at least two weeks in advance when possible. We will make every effort to fulfill requests, subject to availability.