Deputy Director, N7 Initiative, Middle East Programs

About the Rafik Hariri Center and Middle East Programs

The Atlantic Council’s Rafik Hariri Center and Middle East Programs seek to produce original analysis of the forces transforming the region and policy recommendations for the United States and Europe about how to promote closer and more productive relations with the region. The Hariri Center recognizes the substantial linkages between political and economic affairs and will develop policy initiatives to promote successful democratic transitions and greater convergence among the Middle East, the United States, and Europe. The Center is dedicated to the memory of the late Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri and his efforts to rise above sectarianism and to promote innovative policies to support economic and political liberalization, sustainable conflict resolution, and greater regional and international integration.

Overview of the Role

The N7 Initiative seeks a highly experienced and motivated leader to serve as Deputy Director of the N7 Initiative. In this critical role, you will be responsible for strategic planning, donor stewardship, project management, and communications and outreach. This role will serve as a thought partner and delegate to the Director; interface with the Initiative’s donors and partners; foster relationships with relevant government officials and private sector representatives; and help ensure the success of key Initiative activities including conferences, trips, and Congressional engagement. As a key representative of the N7 Initiative, you will engage with government officials, international organizations, donors, and the media to advance the institute’s impact and visibility.

This position requires high aptitude for prioritization, organization, agility, and strategic thinking, as well as the ability to self-motivate, take initiative, achieve high-value results, and effectively collaborate across teams, as well as with leadership and external stakeholders at all levels. 

This position is based in our Washington, DC, headquarters, requiring a minimum of 4 days per week in office. The Atlantic Council offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, education, and organizational equity, with offers from 130,000 to $140,000. Applications submitted by June 5, 2025, will be prioritized for consideration.

Job responsibilities

The Deputy Director will be specifically responsible for:

• Intellectual Leadership. Play a leading role in developing the intellectual framework for advancing the N7 Initiative’s mission and programming through strategic planning, research, and speaking opportunities within and outside the Atlantic Council. Work with the Director to foster a network of relevant stakeholders across governments, the private sector, and civil society.
• Project Management. Develop and help oversee programming to strengthen Middle East regional integration, including conferences, trips, roundtables, and other events. Work with the rest of the N7 Initiative and Atlantic Council team on logistics and substance of activities and help the Director ensure successful and impactful programming.
• Outreach/Communications. Ensure a strong and effective N7 Initiative public and media presence. Spearhead the development of an N7 Initiative communications and outreach strategic plan, in coordination with relevant Atlantic Council staff. Oversee the development of communications plans for all N7 Initiative trips, events, and major publications. Foster relationships with relevant media and related stakeholders and pursue opportunities to better amplify the N7 Initiative’s visibility and impact.
• Team Management. Recruit, mentor, and help lead a high-performing team and foster a culture of excellence and collaboration. Management responsibilities could include overseeing assistant or associate directors, program assistants, and/or interns.
• Development and Donor Stewardship. Work closely with Council leadership and the Office of External Relations to sustain and expand the institute’s funding base. Secure financial support from a diverse range of sources, including corporations, government agencies, international organizations, foundations, and individuals, ensuring the long-term sustainability of research activities. Support the Director in regular coordination with major N7 Initiative donors.

• The candidate should have extensive background in Middle East studies, political science, international relations, or a related field;
• Seven or more years of experience in a related US government, non- governmental organizations think tanks positions relevant to regional integration;
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and decision-making skills;
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities;
• Knowledge of the regional political landscape, especially as it relates to regional integration;
• Able to work independently on project outputs;
• Professional experience managing relations with government officials and civil society, including in the Middle East;
• Excellent organizational, project and general management skills.

To produce quality work and to successfully achieve our mission, we recognize the need for our staff to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a work/life balance. Our comprehensive benefits package helps to keep costs low for our staff and their families. Benefits include, but are not limited to comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance, paid time off, 403(b) plan, FSA options, pet insurance, Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility, and wellness benefits.