Video Producer

Position Summary

The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is seeking a Video Producer who will research, develop, and produce original video story concepts, from short-form documentaries to explainers and social video, in collaboration with CFR experts, writers, editors, and the production team. The Video Producer is a video journalist and visual storyteller who brings a reporter's curiosity and a producer's craft to CFR's video work.

Responsibilities

• Research, report, and develop original video story concepts in collaboration with CFR experts, writers, editors, and the production team.
• Pitch and produce video content across formats including short-form documentaries, video explainers, and social video.
• Write and edit scripts, interview questions, and substantive outlines.
• Produce, direct, and conduct on-camera interviews and appearances both in the field and in studio.
• Light and operate cameras across one, two, and three camera setups using pro-level Sony or comparable gear.
• Edit video productions for YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and other digital platforms, with fluency in vertical and platform-native formats.
• Use storytelling principles and the video medium to explain foreign policy concepts and ideas to a wider audience through evocative imagery and motion graphics.
• Research photo and footage needs and work with vendors to negotiate licensing terms.
• Collaborate with staff writers, editors, Council experts, A/V professionals, and external vendors.
• Maintain awareness of video trends and best practices, including video SEO, social platform developments, and successful engagement strategies.
• Support video podcast production as needed.
• Manage production schedules and communicate deliverables clearly to the Head of Production and relevant colleagues.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of hands-on experience producing and editing video, with a portfolio demonstrating work across documentary, explainer, and social video formats.
• BA in film and TV production, journalism, or a related field; advanced degree a plus.
• Experience writing and editing scripts for video and conducting on-camera interviews.
• Experience lighting and recording in professional environments across one, two, and three camera shoots using pro-level Sony or comparable camera gear; solid understanding of cinematography principles.
• Demonstrated passion for research, reporting, and developing original video story concepts.
• Strong passion for using storytelling to unpack complex topics for a general interest audience.
• Mastery of Adobe Premiere; experience with After Effects strongly preferred.
• Proficiency with the full Adobe Creative Cloud suite including Audition, Photoshop, and Illustrator.
• Fluency in vertical video and platform-native social formats, with a strong understanding of what drives performance and engagement across platforms.
• Ability to work in a deadline-driven environment, including occasional hours outside of a standard schedule.
• Strong familiarity with and genuine interest in international affairs and foreign policy.
• A self-starter who can take initiative and work independently when needed.
• A collaborative, collegial approach to working with others.
• Experience with video podcast production is a plus.
• Ability to travel to CFR's offices as needed.

Pay

The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $80,000-$90,000, depending on experience.

Benefits

In addition to competitive salaries, CFR provides employees with an outstanding benefits package.