Director, Project for Media and National Security

Director, Project for Media and National Security

The School of Media and Public Affairs (SMPA) is a trailblazer in the study of political communication, journalism and media. As the only school of its kind in the capital of politics and media, SMPA excels at bringing Washington into the classroom. The SMPA community benefits from access to an extensive network, events with political and media leaders and a prime location to explore the interplay of media and politics. The Project for Media and National Security Director (PMNSD) plays a vital role in advancing public understanding of national security, defense, and cyber issues confronting the United States and the world. Through regular briefings, salons, and high-level interactions between journalists and national security decision-makers, PMNSD provides a unique space, at one of the leading academic institutions in the country, for thoughtful and informative exchanges of information.
The position would organize and host moderated conversations among journalists who cover national security, cybersecurity and related issues with senior national security officials, military officers, policy-makers and experts; oversee logistics, budget, website and small staff that support PMNS activities; work with SMPA leadership and GW development team to raise necessary funding. Coordinate with relevant GW units including the Institute for Public Diplomacy and Global Communications (IPDGC), the Institute for Data, Democracy and Politics (IDDP), and SMPA initiatives as appropriate. Provide opportunities for the wider GW community to benefit from PMNS activities. The position creates an annual strategic plan and budget for the Project and may have the opportunity to teach one course per year for undergraduate and/or graduate students. The initial appointment for this full-time position will be for one year beginning as soon as July 1, 2026, and will be renewable.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities: Elevate journalism on national security, defense and cyber security issues by engaging prominent national security journalists with decision-makers, policymakers and military leaders to deepen understanding and contextual reporting, Organize regular media conversations and briefings as well as symposia; private and public events, Build and maintain relationships with journalists, experts, and organizations in the field and seek collaboration regarding national security issues and media with other parts of the University, Develop a public profile on behalf of quality journalism and an informed public. Interact with faculty and students, and be responsible for running the project, including its administrative, budgetary and fundraising activities. Manage business relationships, identify incremental strategic growth and market opportunities for the Project. Develop account reviews and planning sessions to meet overall strategic objectives. Work with SMPA leadership to provide the University and Project funders with required reporting and financial accounting for PMNS activities.
Minimum Qualifications: BA/BS or equivalent degree in a related discipline plus 7 years of relevant professional experience in journalism and an in-depth understanding of U.S. national security structures, players and policies. Degree must be conferred by the start date of the position. Experience managing a similar project for a university, non-profit or other organization, including both technical and financial skills.
Advertised Salary: $100,000-$114,000
Other Benefits: The successful applicant will have access to the full range of GW's employee benefits including medical insurance. Information on GW's employee benefits is at https://hr.gwu.edu/benefits-programs
Applicant Documents: Required Documents Curriculum Vitae Cover Letter Names and Contact Information for References Optional Documents
Posting Specific Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*). Will you have a BA/BS degree or the equivalent in a related field by the start date of the position? Yes No Do you have at least 7 years of relevant professional experience in journalism? Yes No Can you demonstrate an in-depth understanding of U.S. national security structures, players, and policies? Yes No Do you have experience managing a similar project for a university, non-profit, or other organization, including both technical and financial skills? Yes No