Program Officer, Emerging Technologies, Center for Global Leadership

Title: Program Officer, Emerging Technologies, Center for Global Leadership

Employment Status:  EXEMPT

Salary: $80,000 - $87, 500

Supervisor Title: Vice President, Center for Global Leadership

Date Revised:  October 2024

Summary of Position:

Meridian International Center (Meridian) is seeking an experienced and tech-savvy Program Officer to join our team, focusing on AI, cyberspace, and digital policy. This position is designed to support Meridian's strategic vision to promote responsible, inclusive, and rights-respecting approaches to AI and digital governance. The incumbent will be responsible for the full lifecycle of program delivery, from conception and design through execution and post-program analysis, aligning with Meridian’s mission to foster global understanding and collaboration. The successful candidate will possess a blend of skills in technology policy, program management, and thought leadership to drive international discussions on AI and digital policy.

This position is located in Washington D.C. and Meridian requires MD, DC, or VA residence for all employees. The position may work partially remotely until further notice.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Lead the strategic and operational execution of programs focused on AI governance, cyberspace policy, and digital rights, serving as the primary tech expert to external stakeholders, partners, and internal teams.
  • Conduct research and analysis on global AI and digital policy trends, contributing to Meridian’s thought leadership by authoring articles, policy briefs, and reports, and representing the organization at relevant events and forums.
  • Contribute to and continue to develop a network of partners – corporate, USG agencies, NGOs, and academics in the emerging technology field.
  • Develop and manage capacity-building activities, including exchanges, workshops, and advisory support, with an emphasis on building a diverse and inclusive community of digital policy practitioners.
  • Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders across governments, multilateral institutions, academia, and the private sector to expand Meridian’s network and influence in the field of digital policy.
  • Provide consultation and support to governments and civil society stakeholders in developing responsible digital policy and AI governance frameworks.
  • Support business development efforts by participating in creative brainstorms, proposal writing, and identifying potential funding opportunities to grow Meridian’s portfolio in AI and digital policy.
  • Stay current with emerging trends in AI, cyberspace, digital policy, and internet governance, adapting program approaches as necessary to meet the evolving landscape.
  • Responsible for completing all organizational administrative responsibilities in a timely manner and meeting all organizational administrative deadlines
  • Other duties as assigned

Education/Experience

  • Undergraduate degree; focus on international studies, technology policy, cybersecurity, political science, or a related field preferred.
  • 4-7 years of related experience in digital policy, AI governance, cybersecurity, or internet governance.
  • Or any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the essential functions of the position

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

  • Strong attention to detail and protocol, including awareness of deadlines and budget parameters, to ensure high-quality program implementation and stakeholder engagement.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills, with experience in authoring policy briefs, reports, and conducting public speaking engagements.
  • Outstanding organizational skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrated experience managing multiple, concurrent programs is required.
  • A team-oriented self-starter, capable of managing initiatives independently and collaboratively, with a proactive, problem-solving mindset.
  • Demonstrated interest in global affairs, technology policy, and working at a mission-driven organization that connects the global community with policymakers and private sector leaders.
  • Strong inter-cultural communication skills; maturity, cultural sensitivity, and tact suitable for working with individuals from around the world

Technical Requirements:

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint, Outlook and Teams is necessary for this role
  • Working knowledge of and interest in honing skills associated with program and event management platforms, including registration, survey tools, and CRM software.
  • Experience with Canva, Zoom and Salesforce is helpful

Employer’s Statement

Meridian is committed to empowering global leaders and amplifying voices of a wide variety of backgrounds to create pathways for greater understanding, shared value and respect for all cultures as connecting people has been our foundation for over 60 years. If you share our values and enthusiasm to promote non-partisan collaboration to address global challenges and opportunities, you can find a home at Meridian.

As an equal opportunity employer, Meridian promotes equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, personal appearance, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, family responsibilities, marital, veteran or military status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, matriculation, political affiliation, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law. Equal employment opportunity will be offered and maintained to all persons at every stage and condition of employment, including recruiting, hiring, training, upgrading, promotion, transfer, discipline, layoff, recall, and termination.

How to Apply 

Please apply with a CV and Cover Letter. Qualified candidates should apply here. Only candidates being considered for this position will be contacted. NO PHONE CALLS in reference to this position will be accepted.