Executive Assistant

The Collaborative Labeling and Appliance Standards Program (CLASP) is an international non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the primary international voice and resource for energy efficiency standards and labeling for appliance worldwide.  

In the fight against climate change, Energy Efficiency Standards & Labels (S&L) for appliances offer enormous carbon reduction potential and are an especially cost-effective policy option for conserving energy - standards can save consumers money, reduce power demand, and slash greenhouse gas emissions. 

CLASP provides best practice technical expertise on standards and labeling policies in order to achieve high energy and carbon reduction impacts. CLASP organizes teams of local and international experts to provide technical support to governments and organizations working to develop energy efficiency standards and labeling policies.  

CLASP is headquartered in Washington, DC, with liaison offices and/or team members in China, India, the European Union, and Latin America.  

Position Overview: 

We seek a committed, energetic, and professional individual to join this effort.  The Executive Assistant is a key position providing comprehensive support to the Executive Director of this growing global organization.  The Assistant represents the Executive Director both internally and externally and must have independent judgment and the initiative to plan, prioritize, and organize across a broad spectrum of activities. 

The successful candidate will be a diplomatic and proactive professional with excellent research, writing, and communication skills. The Assistant will be working in a collegial and fast-paced environment as part of a close-knit, collaborative team, for and with the top global experts in the growing Energy Efficiency Standards & Labeling field.  Applicants should be self-motivated, detail-oriented, quick-thinking, and possess a high level of professionalism. 

Responsibilities:

• Provide direct support to the Executive Director: manage schedule and travel coordination and ensure that the Executive Director is fully briefed and prepared for all meetings, events, and trips
• Maintain and manage relationships with a variety of high-level domestic and international partners and contacts, including international governmental representatives and donors
• Serve as the hub for all communications with the Executive Director: screen, prioritize, and direct inquiries from colleagues within and outside of CLAPS's network; ensure that high priority correspondence receives proper attention and response
• Plan and manage regular internal briefings among staff and other meetings as appropriate; this includes arranging logistics for travel, materials, space, and technology requirements
• Manage, improve, and create systems for calendar, contact, and communications; ensure that files, both electronic and paper, are organized and current
• Conduct research and/or prepare materials frequently
• Draft and edit communications, including letters, emails, and other written work products as necessary
• Provide grants management support and maintain relationships with grantors as needed
• Anticipate needs; plan time and materials accordingly

Qualifications:

• 2-5 years of relevant administrative experience, preferably in an executive support role
• BS or BA degree
• Ability to independently prioritize and manage multiple and sometimes competing tasks and satisfactorily meet deadlines and desired outcomes
• Excellent oral and written communications skills; past experience independently drafting complex correspondence
• High degree of proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, SharePoint); experience with database management a plus
• Past experience working with an international scope (i.e. experience scheduling in multiple time zones and interacting with international colleagues)
• Ability to quickly and accurately analyze problems and identify appropriate solutions; capable of handling complex issues creatively and effectively
• Tact, poise, professionalism, diplomacy, teamwork, humor, and ability to interact with people from all walks of life
• Ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion
• Experience in a fast-paced, dynamic, and demanding start-up environment
• Experience with grants administration a plus
• Spanish language skills a plus
• Working knowledge or understanding of climate change/environmental issues, especially energy efficiency and conservation

Compensation:  The expected start date for this position is June 2010.  The position will be located in Washington, DC.  CLASP offers an excellent benefits package and a competitive salary that is commensurate with experience.  

To Apply:  

Please email a resume and cover letter, both in Word format, outlining how your skills and experience meet the qualifications of the position and salary requirements; subject line "Executive Assistant."  No phone calls please.  

CLASP is an equal opportunity employer.