Video Producer

Position Summary

The ideal Video Producer will have demonstrated experience writing, producing, and editing visually compelling video content across an array of formats. This role will focus on our brand marketing videos, including event recap and sizzle reels, with opportunities to work on video explainers and short-form social video. A strong, hands-on background in video editing and motion graphic production is required, with a portfolio that reflects deep familiarity with social video formats and brand storytelling. Must have a passion for visual storytelling and a love of collaborative problem-solving.

This full-time position is based in CFR’s Washington DC office, at least three days per week. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are considered institutional anchor days where all staff are required to be onsite. Effective Monday, September 14, 2026, CFR employees will be based on-site at least four days per week. CFR’s remote working schedule is subject to change. 

Essential Functions/Responsibilities

• Produce, write, and edit short-form video content, including brand marketing videos, event recaps and sizzle reels, and social media explainers.
• 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.
• 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.
• Manage production schedules and communicate deliverables clearly to the Director of Video, colleagues, and senior leadership.
• 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.
• Produce and direct video podcast recordings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Experience

• At least 3 years of hands-on experience editing and producing video, with a portfolio demonstrating brand marketing and social video work.
• BA in film and TV production, journalism, or a related field.
• Experience in digital newsroom, digital magazine or web video.
• Demonstrated passion for using storytelling to unpack complex topics for a general interest audience.
• 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.

Related Skills & Other Requirements

• Mastery of Adobe Premiere; experience with After Effects strongly preferred.
• Ability to work in a deadline-driven environment, including occasional hours outside of a standard schedule.
• Strong familiarity with international affairs and foreign policy topics.
• Proficiency with the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, including Audition, Photoshop, and Illustrator.
• A self-starter who can take initiative and work independently when needed.
• A collaborative, collegial approach to working with others.
• Ability to travel as needed.

Required Application Materials

• Please submit a résumé, cover letter, and website, reel, or digital portfolio of work.

Compensation and Benefits

• The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $80,000-$90,000, depending on experience.
• In addition to competitive salaries, CFR provides employees with an outstanding benefits package.

About CFR

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.