Assistant Director, Studies Operations

Council on Foreign Relations•New York, NY

1d•$70,000 - $75,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Assistant Director, Studies Operations supports the effective operation of the Council on Foreign Relations’ David Rockefeller Studies Program, a foreign policy think tank focused on advancing discussion of American foreign policy and international affairs through research, publications, public outreach, and discussions. The role coordinates departmental activities, manages administrative processes, prepares communications on behalf of senior leadership, and supports special projects across the program. The Director of Studies office oversees staffing, budgeting, and the development and implementation of departmental policies and procedures. The position is based in CFR’s New York City office on a hybrid basis. CFR defines hybrid status as working at least four days a week onsite, with Tuesday through Thursday designated as institutional anchor days when all staff are required onsite. The position is full-time, with annual compensation of $70,000–$75,000 depending on experience. Applicants should submit a résumé and cover letter stating their interest.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
At least four years of work experience in operations, program coordination, or a related field.
Excellent professional judgment, discretion, and interpersonal skills.
Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills, including the ability to draft communications for senior leadership.
Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and competing deadlines.
Strong project management and coordination skills, including the ability to collaborate across teams and independently manage assigned responsibilities.
Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills, including the ability to assess operational needs, identify improvement opportunities, and develop practical solutions to departmental challenges.
Adaptability and initiative, including the ability to navigate ambiguity, respond to changing priorities, and take ownership of new projects and responsibilities.

Responsibilities

Coordinate activities within the Director of Studies office and across the Studies Program, including department-wide meetings and events, notes for high-level meetings, ad hoc research, logistics for books and reports, website management, and special projects.
Oversee onboarding for new fellows in coordination with other departments.
Draft communications on behalf of the Senior Vice President of Studies, including monthly departmental updates and notes on major publications.
Coordinate with fellows on annual stewardship letters and reports by gathering information, editing text, and liaising with the Development department.
Act as departmental liaison for special projects as needed.
Support the development, implementation, and improvement of departmental processes and procedures to strengthen operational efficiency and effectiveness.
Track project deadlines, deliverables, and outstanding action items for departmental initiatives; follow up with stakeholders to support timely completion and identify potential challenges.
Perform other duties or tasks as assigned or required.