Assistant Director, Defense and National Security Program

Council on Foreign Relations•Washington, DC

9d•$70,000 - $75,000•Hybrid

About The Position

CFR’s David Rockefeller Studies Program is one of the country’s largest foreign policy think tanks with a widely respected and influential research staff. The Studies Program aims to advance the discussion of American foreign policy and international affairs through its writing, publications, public outreach, and discussions. The Defense and National Security Program analyzes the world's rapidly changing defense environment. It focuses on U.S. defense strategy, the future of war, the defense industrial base, emerging capabilities, and technologies such as artificial intelligence and cyber. The program and affiliated fellows enhance the public debate through books, articles, op-eds, interviews, congressional testimony, roundtables, and briefings. The assistant director will work under the program directors on projects related to defense and national security.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in international relations or related field
4+ years related experience in a research, government, consulting, journalism or other relevant role
Previous related experience that required strong writing and editing ability, knowledge relevant to defense and national security, and the ability to work with accomplished researchers and authors
Exceptional organizational skills and outstanding attention to detail
Demonstrated ability to manage projects and tasks independently and under deadlines
Editorial experience
Experience with event logistics, budgets, and/or website management

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred

Responsibilities

Manage the program’s day-to-day operations and schedules, including publications, meetings, and events, with guidance from directors
Assist in overseeing and coordinating the program’s activities and published products, including working closely with outside authors on research papers intended for policymakers, and editing and proofreading written material
Work closely with directors to develop and monitor the program’s budget
Coordinate events and conference logistics, including preparing invitations, corresponding with speakers, helping to prepare background papers and materials for distribution, and providing other logistical support
Manage the program’s marketing activities, social media presence, and other digital tools, optimizing for ways to improve the program’s reach with policymakers
Work with other CFR departments to identify funding opportunities, and drafting grant proposals and reports
Work closely with program directors, fellows, research associates, and interns on the management of projects
Conduct miscellaneous administrative tasks such as making travel arrangements and scheduling, as needed
Provide support across departmental lines and for other fellows, upon request