Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)

Director - Wadhwani AI Center (Washington)

WASHINGTON, DCPosted 19 days ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)

  • Job overview

    The Director of the Wadhwani AI Center at CSIS leads AI policy research and shapes domestic and international AI policy debates to influence government action and industry mobilization.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    The Director develops the Center's strategic vision, manages research projects, leads publication efforts, expands networks across industry and government, organizes events, provides expert commentary, builds and mentors the team, secures funding, and collaborates with EST leadership.

  • Compensation and benefits

    The salary range is $250,000 to $295,000 with bonus potential based on individual and company performance; benefits details are not specified.

  • Experience and skills

    Requires 15+ years of AI policy expertise with technical AI knowledge, an M.A./M.S. degree (MBA/MPA or PhD preferred), experience in industry, government or academia, strong writing and editing skills, and a global stakeholder network.

  • Career development

    Opportunities include leading a world-class team, mentoring junior staff, participating in EST leadership projects, and expanding fundraising and research initiatives.

  • Work environment and culture

    CSIS is a bipartisan, nonprofit organization valuing professionalism, transparency, ethics, accountability, and equal opportunity in a moderate office environment in Washington, D.C.

  • Company information

    CSIS is a large nonprofit public policy organization founded in 1962 with 275 employees focused on global security and prosperity through strategic insights and policy solutions.

  • Team overview

    The Director leads the Wadhwani AI Center team within the EST Department, collaborating closely with other program directors and CSIS leadership.

  • Job location and travel

    The position is based in Washington, D.C., in an office environment with moderate noise levels and reasonable accommodations for disabilities.

  • Application process

    Applicants must submit a single PDF with a cover letter and resume, plus a writing sample on an AI topic, by July 18 via the CSIS careers portal; no additional materials are requested initially.

  • Unique job features

    The role offers the unique opportunity to influence global AI policy, engage with top government and industry leaders, and lead a high-impact research center at a prestigious policy institution.

Company overview

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a prominent think tank based in Washington, D.C., focusing on policy studies and strategic analysis of political, economic, and security issues worldwide. They generate revenue through donations, grants, and contracts from governments, private sector entities, and philanthropic organizations. Founded in 1962, CSIS has a rich history of providing non-partisan insights and fostering dialogue among policymakers, scholars, and industry leaders to address global challenges.

How to land this job

  • Position your resume to emphasize your extensive expertise in AI policy, strategic leadership, and your ability to drive impactful research and external engagement aligned with CSIS's Economic Security and Technology Department mission.

  • Highlight your experience managing multi-disciplinary research projects, leading teams, and your proven ability to collaborate with government, industry, and academic stakeholders to influence AI policy and innovation.

  • Apply through multiple platforms including the CSIS corporate careers site and LinkedIn to maximize your visibility and ensure your application reaches the appropriate hiring teams.

  • Connect on LinkedIn with current leaders and researchers in the Economic Security and Technology Department at CSIS; start conversations by referencing recent AI policy reports they published or commenting on their participation in high-profile AI policy events.

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