Director of Programs

Director of Programs (Volunteer Role)

Atlanta Council on International Relations (ACIR)

Overview

The Atlanta Council on International Relations (ACIR) is seeking a dedicated and globally engaged Director of Programs to help shape the organization’s event programming and international outreach. This volunteer leadership role is ideal for retirees, mid-career professionals, or anyone passionate about global affairs and eager to contribute to Atlanta’s dynamic international community.

As Director of Programs, you will collaborate with a committee of subject-matter experts, ACIR leadership, and a network of partners to identify and invite high-level speakers for ACIR’s luncheon and dinner events. You will also serve on the Board of Directors and play a key part in advancing ACIR’s mission to promote dialogue and understanding of international affairs.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Identify, research, and invite potential speakers for ACIR luncheon and occasional dinner programs.
• Lead and coordinate a committee of experts with broad international connections.
• Monitor global political, economic, and security developments to ensure programming aligns with current events.
• Leverage contacts from governments, multilateral institutions, academia, business, and the diplomatic community.
• Work closely with the ACIR President and collaborate with ACIR’s international master’s degree interns (committed through 2026).
• Engage members, partners, and organizations such as Global Atlanta, universities, newspapers, and international groups to source speaker ideas.
• Attend approximately 10 luncheon events per year (August–May), typically held at the Capital City Club from 11:30 AM–1:30 PM.
• Attend approximately 6 Board meetings per year, often following ACIR programs.
• Fulfill additional duties as outlined in detailed procedural documentation (available upon expression of interest).

Requirements

• Strong interest in international affairs, world events, diplomacy, or global business.
• Experience or connections with international, multilateral, or governmental entities (helpful but not required).
• Ability to dedicate a few hours per week to ACIR activities.
• Comfort leading a committee and collaborating with diverse stakeholders.
• Availability for ACIR programs and required Board meetings.
• Excellent communication and networking skills.

Benefits (Volunteer Position)

Although unpaid, this role offers exceptional professional and personal benefits, including:

• Opportunities to interact with ambassadors, foreign ministers, military leaders, national security experts, distinguished academics, and global business leaders.
• A chance to deepen your network within Atlanta’s internationally minded community.
• Active contribution to ACIR’s mission of fostering public understanding of global affairs.
• A Board of Directors role within a respected international affairs nonprofit founded in 1954.
• Free admission to ACIR programming.

About ACIR

Founded in 1954 and recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit since 2017, the Atlanta Council on International Relations promotes public understanding of global issues through forums, panels, lectures, and public dialogue. ACIR works to stimulate interest in international relations and world affairs that influence the economic, social, and intellectual well-being of the community.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should contact:

Tania Carswell

Director of Human Resources, ACIR

📧 tcarswell@atlantacir.org