Application Guide
How to Apply for Program Coordinator or Program Manager - Economics Program and Scholl Chair in International Business
at Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS)
🏢 About Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS)
CSIS is a premier bipartisan think tank focused on international policy and strategic issues, known for its influential research and direct engagement with policymakers. Working here offers the unique opportunity to shape economic and international business policy at the highest levels while collaborating with experts across government, academia, and industry.
About This Role
This dual role coordinates the Economics Program while supporting the Scholl Chair in International Business, involving research coordination, event management, and stakeholder engagement. It's impactful because you'll directly contribute to shaping U.S. economic policy and international business strategy through CSIS's influential platform.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day involves coordinating research timelines between Economics Program projects and Scholl Chair initiatives, preparing briefing materials for stakeholders, managing virtual event logistics for policy discussions, and collaborating with researchers to ensure policy-relevant outputs. You'll balance program administration with substantive engagement on economic and international business issues.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS) Is Looking For
- Has 2-3 years of experience in economic policy, international business, or think tank environments
- Demonstrates strong project coordination skills with ability to manage multiple research initiatives simultaneously
- Possesses knowledge of international trade, economic policy, or global business trends
- Shows understanding of how think tanks influence policy and can engage with diverse stakeholders
📝 Tips for Applying to Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS)
Highlight any experience with economic research coordination or policy program management
Demonstrate understanding of CSIS's bipartisan approach and how you'd contribute to their mission
Reference specific CSIS publications or events from the Economics Program or Scholl Chair's work
Emphasize remote collaboration skills given the distributed nature of think tank work
Connect your background to both the economic policy AND international business aspects of this dual role
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Your understanding of CSIS's role in shaping economic and international business policy", 'Specific examples of coordinating research programs or managing policy initiatives', 'How your background bridges economic analysis and international business perspectives', 'Your ability to support high-level experts while driving programmatic outcomes']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Recent publications from CSIS's Economics Program and Scholl Chair in International Business
- → CSIS's current initiatives on trade policy, economic security, or global business trends
- → The backgrounds and recent work of the Scholl Chair and Economics Program leadership
- → How CSIS engages with policymakers compared to other think tanks
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying with generic think tank experience without specific economic/international business focus
- Failing to understand the dual nature of coordinating both program areas simultaneously
- Not demonstrating awareness of CSIS's specific policy influence channels and bipartisan approach
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS)!