Director of Academic Programs

Position Title: Director of Academic Programs

Category: Full-time

The Korea Economic Institute of America (KEI) is a U.S. policy institute and public outreach organization dedicated to helping Americans understand the breadth and importance of the relationship with the Republic of Korea. Through our publications, programs, and public events, KEI seeks to advance scholarship and understanding of Korea in ways that will inform policy makers and the American public of the security, economic, and political implications of our connections to the Korean Peninsula.

KEI is seeking Director of Academic Programs to lead KEI’s collaboration with the academic and policy communities. The Director conducts his or her own research and analyses, organizes public events on issues related to Korea and U.S.-Korea relations and serves as an expert and commentator on the Korean Peninsula and the region. Working with the staff and Fellows and reporting to the President & CEO, the Director sets the agenda for academic programs, policy research, and KEI’s publications.

This is a full-time position based in Washington, D.C. The position requires domestic and international travel. KEI offers a competitive benefits package including 401k; 100% employer-sponsored medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; Flexible Spending Account; transportation subsidies; on-site fitness center, and generous leave policies. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. KEI does not sponsor an employment visa. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Budgeted salary range is $85,000 – $95,000.

Essential duties and responsibilities:

· Lead KEI’s engagement with academia and the policy community by developing and managing KEI’s academic programs.

· Develop research by outside contributors and conduct his or her own research.

· Serve as a managing editor for KEI’s flagship biannual journal Korea Policy.

· Convene expert groups for roundtables and lead KEI policy meetings.

· Organize and moderate panels and run simulations at universities across the United States.

· Oversee all aspects of KEI’s editorial and publication process; develop topics, identify authors, provide edits, arrange for reviews, and perform other related duties.

· Write regularly for the KEI blog and outside publications, including op-eds and research papers.

· Take a major role in KEI’s outreach to the media, academia, and policy circles by briefing and participating in public events and conferences.

Qualifications and required skills:

· M.A. in Economics, Political Science, International Relations, Public Policy, Regional Studies or a related field. Ph.D. preferred.

· At least 3 - 5 years of experience working in academia or engaging in policy work with a demonstrated expertise in the politics, economics, and/or security of the Korean Peninsula as well as U.S. foreign policy and/or regional dynamics in the Indo-Pacific.

· Must be able to lead independent policy research, issue-focused meetings, and events without supervision.

· Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple programs and coordinate editorial and publication projects simultaneously.

· Attention to detail to oversee logistics for programs.

· Interpersonal skills to engage with a wide range of stakeholders and audiences.

· Strong writing and editing skills.

· Strong communication skills, including the ability to effectively present information to policymakers, general audiences and the media.

· Korean language skills would be helpful but are not required.

Benefits:

• 401(k): 8% of base salary and 100% vested
• Health insurance: KEI pays 100% of the premiums for medical, prescription, dental, and vision.
• Life insurance: KEI covers 100% of the premium.
• Flexible Spending Account
• 12 paid holidays
• Paid vacation days, sick leave, and personal days
• 12-week paid parental leave
• Severance pay
• Commuter benefits: Up to $300 monthly for public transit
• Professional development
• Free access to on-site gym

Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter, CV including publications and/or digital output, and two writing samples (maximum of 10 pages) at hr@keia.org by February 28, 2025.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $85,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

• Washington, DC 20006 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Washington, DC 20006: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Washington, DC 20006

Salary : $85,000 - $95,000