director, middle east engagement
Washington, DC / Policy / Full-time
Opportunity
Defense Priorities (DEFP) seeks a full-time Director to manage its new Middle East Engagement Program. This job is an opportunity to be a leading voice defining a more restrained U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. Our organization holds the view that the U.S. is suffering from decades of strategic overstretch encouraged by its grand strategy of “liberal hegemony.” This approach to foreign policy, we believe, has needlessly enmeshed U.S. forces in Middle East conflicts in a confused effort to achieve “energy security,” promote democracy, and defeat terrorism through expensive and failed nation-building efforts. The Director would lead a project defining a restrained alternative, including a U.S. military withdrawal from the region.
The Director will develop and build the project. The Director will conduct original analysis and writing on U.S. foreign policy based on realism and restraint in the forms of op-eds, reports, papers, and more. In addition to program leadership, research, and writing, the Director will engage in discussions and outreach with policymakers, media outlets, and the public about key policies and issues. Middle East specialists, and generalists with deep knowledge of international relations and an interest in focusing on the Middle East are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
Developing and promoting major research projects to articulate policies for Middle Eastern engagement based on a grand strategy of restraint
Writing policy reports, briefs, journal papers, and op-eds on important issues related to U.S. security and foreign policy, as well as working with DEFP team members to promote work after publication
Organizing and leading symposia, roundtables, and workshops with journalists and policymakers on issues at the intersection of defense policy, international security, and world affairs
Keeping abreast of current foreign policy trends, tracking the agenda of the current administration and policy proposals
Identifying and pursuing opportunities to present ideas and research at public events, conferences, and think tank panel discussions
Working with DEFP team to elevate our ideas through social media, online videos, data visualizations, and other media
Meeting with administration officials, members of Congress, their staffs, and other relevant groups to present and discuss research findings and policy recommendations
Qualifications
Master’s degree or Ph.D. in political science, international affairs, or a related field
5–10 years of professional and research experience in U.S. foreign policy
A strong record of research and writing about U.S. foreign policy
Demonstration of high-quality work in a professional, demanding environment
Self-starter with an ability to translate abstract concepts into practical policy applications
Ability to balance multiple, competing directions, identify and delegate tasks effectively, and manage multiple projects successfully
Outstanding writing, research, and communication skills
Additional information
DEFP is headquartered in Washington, DC, but we will consider applicants from other areas who are able to work remotely. The position offers comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits; a 401(k) retirement plan; and flexible PTO (paid time off).
We look for the following qualities in candidates: Integrity, intelligence, innovative/creative thinking, flexibility/adaptability, curiosity, strong story-telling capability, strong work ethic, passion, and positive energy.
Candidates who meet the requirements are encouraged to send a resume, cover letter, and writing samples through the application below. If you have additional questions, please email jobs@defensepriorities.org.