Executive Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization that has been operational for several decades. It is known for its in-depth investigations, incisive and timely reporting, and innovative advocacy campaigns. HRW has successfully influenced human rights-related policies and practices of influential governments and international institutions. The organization values diversity and actively seeks a diverse applicant pool, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to apply. HRW is committed to equal opportunity and does not discriminate based on disability, age, gender identity and expression, national origin, race and ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or criminal record. The organization employs individuals from a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds and perspectives, including parents and nonparents, self-taught individuals, and those with formal education. HRW operates in multiple countries around the world, focusing on various human rights issues and advocating for change.

Job Overview:
The Executive Assistant position is a critical role within the Office of the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director at Human Rights Watch. The individual in this position will provide comprehensive operational, project, and administrative support to the Executive Director and the Special Advisor for Internal Communications. The Executive Director is responsible for the strategic direction of HRW, ensuring that the organization maximizes its impact globally. This role requires a significant in-person presence in the New York City office, particularly when the Executive Director is present. The Executive Assistant will manage the Executive Director's calendar, travel arrangements, and correspondence, ensuring that all activities align with organizational priorities. The position also involves liaising with various stakeholders, including Board members, donors, and government officials, while maintaining confidentiality and discretion. The Executive Assistant will play a vital role in supporting the Executive Director's engagement with HRW's Development department and coordinating executive leadership meetings and cross-organizational projects. Additionally, the role includes managing the Executive Office's budget and financial operations, implementing operational policies, and providing event management support.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Executive Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to:

• Managing the day-to-day calendar of the Executive Director to optimize their time effectively;
• Ensuring effective time management and anticipating workflow opportunities;
• Coordinating travel and scheduling arrangements for the Executive Director and the Special Advisor;
• Liaising with internal and external stakeholders, including Board members and donors;
• Managing the Executive Director's social media accounts in collaboration with the Communications team;
• Supporting the Executive Director's engagement with HRW's Development department;
• Assisting in planning and coordinating executive leadership meetings;
• Tracking deliverables and monitoring deadlines for cross-organizational projects;
• Developing systems to streamline communications; 1
• Planning and supporting internal and external meetings, including taking minutes; 1
• Organizing the Executive Director's correspondence and presentations; 1
• Maintaining records of the Executive Director's speaking engagements; 1
• Managing budget and financial operations for the Executive Office; 1
• Advising on and implementing operational policies; 1
• Providing event management support; 1
• Scheduling and participating in regular staff meetings; 1
• Implementing and managing office systems; 1
• Supporting recruitment and onboarding of new staff; 1
• Processing expenses and invoices; 2
• Performing other duties as required; 2
• Collaborating with the Executive Support Team to ensure strong coordination across demands.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor's level degree or equivalent working experience. A demonstrated long-term commitment to executive administration, operations, project coordination/management, or related professional support functions is highly valued. Candidates should have prior experience in executive-level office administration, with exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail. The ability to exercise sound judgment in evaluating requests and determining priorities is essential. Experience managing an Executive-level calendar and planning extensive travel is required. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory, along with strong interpersonal skills to interact diplomatically with various stakeholders. Candidates must demonstrate reliability, resourcefulness, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Adaptability to competing demands and the ability to work well under pressure while managing multiple tasks are crucial.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's level degree is required for this position. While an understanding of or interest in international relations, media, fundraising, or human rights is desirable, the organization particularly values candidates with a demonstrated long-term commitment to executive administration and related support functions.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of working experience is required, including experience supporting Executive-level positions, ideally in international contexts. Candidates should have demonstrated experience managing projects, coordinating multiple stakeholders, and ensuring follow-through on deadlines and commitments.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered a plus, but English is mandatory for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in New York City, and candidates must possess valid US work authorization as HRW is unable to provide work visa sponsorship. The salary range for this position is USD 80,000 – 88,000, plus employer-paid benefits. The application deadline is September 7, 2026, and candidates are encouraged to apply through the HRW online job portal, attaching a cover letter and resume in PDF format. HRW emphasizes the importance of a complete application and will only review those that meet the submission criteria. Inquiries regarding application status will not be answered, and submissions via email will not be accepted.