Senior Video Producer

Council on Foreign Relations • New York, NY

6d • $100,000 - $125,000 • Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in film/TV Production, Journalism, Communications, or related field.
• 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.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to travel as needed.
• Résum e.
• Cover letter.
• A strong collection of work presented on a website, reel, or digital portfolio.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree a plus.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees