ABOUT US

The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization whose purpose is to ignite human potential to build understanding and create new possibilities for a better world. Founded in 1949, the Institute drives change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve society’s greatest challenges. It is headquartered in Washington, DC, and has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, as well as an international network of partners.

PHILOSOPHY & SOCIETY PROGRAM

The Aspen Institute’s Philosophy & Society Program advances the role of philosophy in addressing contemporary public challenges and enriching civic life. Through dialogue, public programming, and partnerships, the program brings philosophical inquiry to leaders across sectors—exploring questions of ethics, meaning, democracy, and human flourishing. By connecting timeless ideas with present-day issues, the program fosters deeper reflection, constructive dialogue, and more thoughtful leadership in a complex world.

ABOUT THIS ROLE

The Executive Assistant will provide high-level administrative support to the Executive Director and senior leadership of the Philosophy & Society Program, as well as others on an ad hoc basis. This role reports to the Executive Director and requires strong organizational, communication, and judgment skills to support a dynamic portfolio of programs and convenings.

This position has a salary range of $60,000 - $70,000. This is a hybrid, Washington, DC-based position. Selected candidates are expected to work in person approximately three days per week.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Work directly with the Executive Director and senior leadership to support all aspects of the program’s work, maintaining visibility across multiple workstreams and priorities.
• Manage complex executive and team calendars, including scheduling meetings, convenings, speaking engagements, and travel arrangements.
• Organize and support meetings and events, including preparing materials, coordinating logistics (virtual and in-person), and taking notes as requested.
• Help prioritize incoming requests and correspondence; ensure timely follow-up on key issues and decisions.
• Draft, review, and send professional communications to internal and external stakeholders.
• Prepare, reconcile, and submit expense reports and contracts; maintain accurate records and data entry systems.
• Support programmatic activities, including the philosophy salon and public events, as needed.
• Assist with recruiting and onboarding processes, including scheduling interviews and coordinating new hire logistics.
• Handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO THRIVE

• 3+ years of professional experience, including administrative or executive support roles.
• Strong time management and organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to multitask and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, including anticipating needs and planning ahead.
• High attention to detail while maintaining a big-picture understanding of program priorities.
• Professional discretion and ability to handle confidential information.
• Experience with enterprise systems for file management and expense processing (e.g., SAP Concur, Tipalti) and CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce).
• Interest in or familiarity with philosophy, ethics, or civic dialogue is a plus.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Aspen Institute offers a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, and prescription benefits, retirement benefits, and paid leave.

The Aspen Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all District and federal laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or protected veteran or disabled status and will not be discriminated against.

The Aspen Institute welcomes individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs, including the interview process. If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about accessibility, please email hrsupport@aspeninstitute.org or call 202-736-2127 in advance of your visit. Requests for ASL or CART services should be made at least two weeks in advance when possible. We will make every effort to fulfill requests, subject to availability