Application Guide

How to Apply for Program Officer/Senior Program Officer, Communications (Publications and External Engagement)

at Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA)

🏢 About Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA)

CEPA is a unique non-partisan think tank focused exclusively on transatlantic relations, democracy, security, and defense. Unlike many policy organizations, CEPA maintains a sharp operational focus on actionable research and programs that directly influence policymakers and strengthen the NATO alliance. Working here offers the opportunity to contribute to high-stakes geopolitical discussions while being part of a mission-driven organization with direct impact.

About This Role

This role serves as the operational hub for CEPA's external communications, managing the entire publication pipeline from long-form reports to website content while driving media engagement. You'll be responsible for translating complex policy research into accessible formats and ensuring CEPA's digital presence aligns with programmatic priorities. This position directly amplifies CEPA's influence by connecting research with policymakers, media, and the public.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your morning might involve coordinating with researchers on publication timelines, updating website content to feature new reports, and monitoring media coverage of transatlantic issues. Afternoons could include planning promotion strategies for upcoming publications, working with the Director on media outreach, and managing website working group discussions to align digital presence with program priorities. You'll constantly balance long-term publication projects with daily press engagement and website maintenance.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA) Is Looking For

  • Has 3-5 years experience managing publication workflows in think tank, policy, or academic settings, with demonstrated ability to shepherd projects from concept to distribution
  • Possesses strong digital content management skills (likely WordPress or similar CMS) and understands how to structure websites for policy audiences
  • Has media relations experience including press list management, monitoring, and outreach strategy development in foreign policy/defense sectors
  • Can bridge technical publication processes with strategic communications goals, understanding how different content formats serve different audiences

📝 Tips for Applying to Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA)

1

Highlight specific experience with policy publications - mention types of publications you've managed (reports, briefs, commentaries) and your role in the production process

2

Demonstrate understanding of transatlantic policy audiences - show you know who reads CEPA's work (policymakers, journalists, experts) and how to reach them

3

Provide concrete examples of website content management, especially how you've organized information for policy research dissemination

4

Mention any experience with defense/security/democracy topics, as this shows you understand CEPA's substantive focus areas

5

Quantify your media engagement experience - number of press releases distributed, media mentions secured, or journalists in your network

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your experience managing the complete publication lifecycle for policy-focused content', "How you've successfully connected research with external audiences through media engagement or digital platforms", "Your understanding of CEPA's mission and how this role supports it through strategic communications", 'Specific examples of improving website structure or content to better serve organizational goals']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Study CEPA's recent publications - note formats, topics, and how they're promoted across channels
  • → Analyze CEPA's current website structure and identify potential improvements for content organization
  • → Review CEPA's media presence - which outlets regularly feature their experts and what angles they cover
  • → Understand CEPA's program areas (democracy, security, defense) and current transatlantic policy debates

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk us through your process for managing a long-form publication from concept to promotion
2 How would you structure CEPA's website to better highlight our programmatic priorities?
3 What media outlets would you prioritize for outreach on a report about NATO defense capabilities?
4 How do you balance the needs of different stakeholders (researchers, programs, leadership) in publication planning?
5 Describe a time you had to translate complex policy research into accessible content for different audiences
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Generic communications experience without policy/think tank context - this role requires understanding of academic/policy publishing norms
  • Focusing only on social media or marketing - this role is publications and media relations heavy with website management
  • Not demonstrating knowledge of transatlantic policy landscape - shows lack of understanding of CEPA's core mission

📅 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:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA)!

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