The Senior Video Producer will use their strong news judgment to create visually compelling, story-driven video products across social and digital platforms. This role requires experience in the end-to-end video production lifecycle including producing, writing, and editing short-form documentaries, social explainers, motion graphics, and video podcasts.

The ideal candidate is an innovative storyteller who combines fact-based research and visual creativity to engage audiences.  A typical day might include editing short form vertical explainers, recording three camera video podcasts, script research and writing, and/or short documentary production.

This is a full-time position based in our New York City or Washington, D.C. office, requiring on-site presence four days per week, with flexibility to work on-site five days as needed for production.

• Lead production of a wide range of video products for distribution on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and other digital platforms. 
• Collaborate with fellow staff members, including writers/editors, audience editors, and the Council's foreign policy experts, to create engaging video stories that are authoritative and accurate.
• Use storytelling principles and the video medium to explain complex foreign policy concepts and ideas to a wider audience with evocative imagery and motion graphics.
• Research photo and footage needs and work with vendors to negotiate licensing terms.
• Write and edit scripts, interview questions, and substantive outlines.
• Produce, direct, and conduct on-camera appearances and interviews both in the field and in the studio.
• Manage daily production schedule, track, and communicate deliverables to the Director of Video, colleagues, and senior leadership.
• Regularly work with in-house A/V professionals and external vendors.
• Maintain awareness of video trends and competitive landscape, including best practices, video SEO, successful engagement campaigns, and emerging social platforms.
• Perform any other duties or tasks as assigned or required.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in film/TV Production, Journalism, Communications, or related field. Advanced degree a plus.

Experience

• At least 5 years of professional experience in video production, editing, and storytelling (preferably in journalism, documentary, or branded content).
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex subjects into accessible, visually engaging narratives.
• Mastery of Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects.
• Experience video recording in professional environments with one, two, and three camera shoots on pro-level Sony (or comparable) camera gear and studio lights; solid understanding of cinematography principles.
• Proven experience producing for digital and social platforms, with a deep understanding of the social landscape, including the dynamics of different platforms.
• Familiarity with social media management tools and SEO best practices for video.
• Exceptional project management, organization, and communication skills, with the ability to lead production from concept to delivery.
• Strong familiarity with and interest in international affairs and foreign policy and/or news coverage.

Related Skills & Other Requirements

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong editorial judgment.
• Experience prodcuing foreign policy, news or current affairs content a plus. 
• Comfort representing the brand on camera or directing talent in front of the camera.
• Can thrive in small, fast-paced, high-output teams.
• Ability to travel as needed. 

• Résumé
• Cover letter
• A strong collection of work presented on a website, reel, or digital portfolio.

• The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $100,000 – $125,000, depending on experience.
• In addition to competitive salaries, CFR provides employees with an outstanding benefits package.

The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is committed to fostering a foreign policy community in the United States that is more representative of American society, recognizing that diverse backgrounds and perspectives contribute to broader, more informed participation in the foreign policy debate and lead to an enhanced understanding of the world and the United States’ role therein. To that end, CFR is dedicated to continuing to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout its work and workplace by building a more diverse membership and staff, producing and dispensing thoughtful analysis on a broad range of foreign policy issues, and developing relevant, wide-reaching programming that also serves to expand the foreign policy talent pipeline to underrepresented populations.