ILSA is seeking a Program Director

Posted on by Chris Bonnez

The International Law Students Association (ILSA) is seeking a Program Director to work in its world headquarters in Washington, DC (USA).

ILSA is a small non-profit organization in Washington, DC, whose mission is to promote the study of and respect for international law and the rule of law.  ILSA accomplishes this by providing law students with opportunities to study, research, and network in the international legal arena. The organization’s flagship program is the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition, the world’s largest law school moot court competition. ILSA also organizes panels and other programs to promote the study and understanding of international law.

The Program Director will work with ILSA’s constituents around the world, managing and continuing to build external relationships with program participants, volunteers, partners and sponsors. The position will interact with the other three full-time employees, as well as law students, lawyers, scholars and professors participating in the Jessup Competition.  Specific responsibilities include:

  • Creating and administering online and face-to-face workshops, panels, and conferences; working with lead stakeholders to set the content for such events, including inviting speakers, preparing summaries, and prepping speakers and panelists.
  • Coordinating the drafting of Jessup Competition substantive materials, which could include substantive legal writing, depending upon education and experience.
  • Chairing and serving on ILSA committees which includes scheduling meetings, ensuring deadlines are met, and facilitating online communication among committee members. 
  • Serving as first point of contact for all Jessup National Administrators regarding administration of National and Regional Rounds around the world.
  • Reviewing and approving Jessup Competition National Rules Supplements.
  • Administering the Jessup US Regional Rounds and any other National Rounds that ILSA directly administers, including adjudicating complaints.
  • Designing and implementing virtual and in-person training programs for the Jessup Competition.
  • Vetting judges for Preliminary and Advanced Rounds for International Rounds and any National Rounds directly administered by ILSA
  • Compiling Basic Research Materials for the Jessup Competition.

Requirements: 

  • First degree in law or related field
  • Strong written and oral communications skills
  • Extremely organized and detail-oriented
  • Ability to work independently, while managing multiple priorities
  • Ability to anticipate tasks and take initiative
  • Comfort with decision-making, problem-solving and troubleshooting
  • Strong English writing and grammar skills
  • Flexibility to take on other duties as assigned
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Ability to interact with students and lawyers all over the world
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a team-oriented environment
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
  • Ability to travel occasionally and work on weekends as required
  • Authorization to work in the U.S. (non-US citizens must possess work authorization that does not require employer sponsorship for a visa) 

Preferred Skills and Experience: 

  • Graduate law degree (J.D. or LL.M.)
  • At least five years of communications-focused and event planning work experience
  • Experience in non-profit programs

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter of interest and CV or resume to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.