Senior Director, Programs and Strategy

Position description

The Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA) is seeking a highly motivated, strategic, and experienced Senior Director for Programs and Strategy to coordinate and implement research, policy, and strategy initiatives across the organization. This individual will work closely with the President and CEO, as well as other members of the executive team, to execute CEPA’s strategic objectives. The Senior Director will play a pivotal role in ensuring cohesion and coordination across CEPA’s substantive programs while fostering collaboration within the transatlantic policy, research, and government communities.

The ideal candidate will be a proven leader with a strong background in foreign policy, especially transatlantic issues, and national security. S/he should have exceptional analytical and writing skills, deep and broad networks in the policy space, and a deep understanding of U.S. foreign policy and European affairs. This role requires a balance of intellectual leadership, program management, and external engagement to further CEPA’s mission and enhance its reputation as a leading foreign policy think tank. The position is based in Washington, DC, and reports to the President and CEO.

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate CEPA’s research, policy, and strategy efforts, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and strategic priorities.

• Provide intellectual leadership on key policy areas, including security, democracy, technology, and economic resilience in the transatlantic context.

• Review and provide feedback on proposals to ensure quality and alignment with CEPA’s objectives.

• Work closely with program directors to identify emerging issues and deliver timely, impactful research outputs.

• Ensure integration and cohesion across CEPA’s substantive programs.

• Collaborate with the communications and external affairs teams to effectively disseminate research findings to key audiences.

• Represent CEPA in public forums, conferences, and high-level policy discussions to promote the organization’s research and policy recommendations.

• Engage with donors and partners to secure support for research programs and initiatives.

• Contribute to CEPA’s overall strategy as a key member of the leadership team.

• Foster collaboration across the organization to ensure CEPA’s research informs and complements its events, outreach, and programming.
 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree highly preferred;

• 7-10 years of experience in research, policy, or strategy roles with a proven track record of leadership and publication in the transatlantic or foreign policy space.

• Strong understanding of U.S. foreign policy, national security, and European affairs.

• Established network of experts, practitioners, and policymakers in Washington, and preferably in European capitals.

• Proven track record of writing and speaking to U.S. and European policy audiences.

• Exceptional research, analytical, and writing skills, with the ability to produce high-quality work under tight deadlines.

• Strong project management skills and the ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously. •

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences, including policymakers, academics, and donors. A successful candidate will:

• Demonstrate a deep commitment to CEPA’s mission and values, with a strong understanding of transatlantic relations and challenges.

• Exhibit intellectual curiosity, creativity, and a forward-looking approach to research and analysis.

• Be an effective leader, mentor, and collaborator, capable of building and managing high-performing teams.

• Thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with the ability to adapt and manage competing priorities.

• Display professionalism, discretion, and a solutions-oriented mindset in addressing challenges.

• Be willing to travel domestically and internationally. CEPA offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Generous employer-subsidized health insurance;

• 401(k) retirement plan;

• Paid vacation leave, sick leave, and holidays;

• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
 

Application instructions

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