Communications & Programs Assistant

General Description

Location: Hybrid, with regular in-person event support.  Based in Washington, D.C.

Employment Type: Full-time 

The American Swiss Foundation is the leading private organization dedicated to strengthening the historic friendship between the United States and Switzerland. We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our team as a Communications & Programs Assistant. 

In this role, you will be managed by and work closely with the Programs and Communications Manager (PCM). You will provide support for events, programming, and communications. Your work will directly engage the 1,500 alumni of the Foundation and the broader ASF community, ensuring seamless communication and event execution. 

Responsibilities 

Communications 

Collaborate with the PCM to develop and implement communications plans, including new social media series. 

Design, draft, and publish a weekly newsletter via Constant Contact for an audience of ~2,000 members. 

Create and distribute invitations, press releases, and chapter-specific announcements. 

Manage and produce content for ASF’s social media accounts (LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube). 

Monitor and engage with social media followers through likes, reposts, and comments. 

Maintain and update the Foundation’s website with event announcements and news. 

Oversee the backend of the ASF online directory and CRM software (Salesforce). 

Update external communications materials, including photo galleries, videos, and LinkedIn newsletters. 

Draft and publish the Foundation’s press releases and track performance metrics to measure communication effectiveness. 

Event Coordination 

In-Person Events: 

Provide event staffing and support, including guest list management, check-in, seating arrangements, dietary restrictions, and vendor coordination. 

Assist in the production of event materials, such as program booklets and social media content. 

Offer on-the-ground support during events, ensuring all details are executed seamlessly. 

Virtual Events: 

Coordinate logistics for ASF CONNECT programs, including speaker links, calendar files, and post-event follow-ups. 

Ensure the smooth execution of virtual events, managing communications with participants and troubleshooting technical issues. 

 Committee Support 

Assist the PCM in notetaking and other administrative duties as assigned in support of the Alumni, Stratton, and Programs Committees of the ASF 

Manage the Foundation’s CRM software (Salesforce) to maintain accurate records. 

Train and provide support to the Operations Assistant. 

Qualifications 

Bachelor’s degree or higher. 

Native-level English proficiency with excellent writing and communication skills. 

1–2 years of experience in social media marketing, communications, public relations, event management, or related fields. 

Strong attention to detail, copy editing, and organizational skills. 

Ability to create and deliver engaging content for diverse audiences. 

Proficient in tools like Constant Contact, CRM software (e.g., Salesforce), and social media platforms. 

Comfortable working independently and managing multiple tasks simultaneously. 

Project management skills, including the ability to track tasks and meet deadlines. 

Authorization to work in the U.S. is required. 

Why Join Us? 

Work with a dedicated team to strengthen Swiss-American relations and engage with a vibrant alumni network. 

Gain hands-on experience in communications, event management, and international relations. 

Be part of a respected organization with a rich legacy of fostering cultural diplomacy. 

Employee Benefits 

The ASF is pleased to offer a competitive employee benefits package which includes: 

Healthcare Reimbursement Account (HRA) through ADP 

Dependent Care and Healthcare Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) through HealthEquity 

401(k) Retirement Plan (employees are eligible to contribute after completing one year of service) 

How to Apply: 

Please email your cover letter and resume to Vanessa Beary, Executive Director, American Swiss Foundation: info@americanswiss.org.  Feel free to include links to your social media pages and/or portfolio within your cover letter.