Assistant Director, Defense and National Security Program

Assistant Director, Defense and National Security Program Department David Rockefeller Studies Program City Washington State DC Min USD $70,000.00/Yr.

Max USD $75,000.00/Yr.

Position Summary 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. This position is based in CFR’s Washington, DC office at least four days per week.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are considered institutional anchor days where all staff are required to be onsite. CFR’s remote working schedule is subject to change.

Essential Functions/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.

Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree in international relations or related field Master’s degree preferred 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 Related Skills & Other Requirements 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 Required Application Materials Please submit a résumé and cover letter stating your interest in the position.

Compensation and Benefits The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $70,000-$75,000, depending on experience. In addition to competitive salaries, the Council on Foreign Relations offers a benefits package that is among the best offered by nonprofit institutions today, including an award-winning health and wellness program, an on-site fitness center, and generous leave policies and health insurance programs.