Council on Foreign Relations is hiring: Deputy News Editor in Washington

Position Summary
The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is seeking an experienced, multi‑skilled journalist to join our team as a Deputy News Editor. This role offers an opportunity to shape foreign policy coverage at one of the world’s leading think tanks, working at the intersection of rigorous analysis and accessible digital journalism. You will help readers understand U.S. foreign policy as news breaks and provide diverse perspectives on how to think about these issues, while sharpening prose, writing incisive headlines, and upholding CFR’s standards for accuracy and style.

In this role you will take on a variety of editing tasks, including fielding pitches, commissioning pieces from CFR fellows and digital writers, and collaborating with data‑visualization editors and other colleagues across the organization. You will monitor the daily news flow, maintain the editorial calendar, and ensure strong coverage where it matters most. You will also bring a steady editorial hand to every piece you touch: sharpening prose, writing sharp, clear headlines, and flagging opportunities to strengthen each story.

This full‑time position is based in CFR’s Washington, DC or New York City office at least three days per week. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are considered anchor days when all staff are required to be onsite. Effective Monday, September 14, 2026, CFR employees will be required to be on‑site at least four days per week. Remote work schedules are subject to change.

Essential Functions / Responsibilities

Edit and assign coverage of international developments, including analytical commentary from CFR fellows and explanatory pieces from digital writers and editors.

Commission and develop content that responds to breaking news while advancing longer‑term editorial priorities.

Build and maintain the editorial calendar and content roadmap.

Write sharp, clear headlines and identify opportunities to strengthen every piece.

Monitor the daily news cycle and identify gaps or opportunities for coverage across formats, including expert analysis, explainers, video, and podcasts.

Collaborate with editors working on data visualizations, video, and social media.

Assist in creating content supporting major CFR projects, including Task Force reports and cross‑departmental initiatives.

Manage, mentor, and develop writers, editors, and content producers.

Ensure adherence to CFR editorial standards, accuracy, and house style.

Perform any other duties or tasks as assigned or required.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree in international relations or a related field preferred.

At least six years of related journalism experience, preferably in digital publishing.

At least one to two years of experience managing editorial staff.

Demonstrated interest in international relations and global news.

Related Skills & Other Requirements

Experience with a CMS or web management system strongly preferred.

High initiative, keen news judgment, and a talent for helping writers find and strengthen their voices.

Skilled at navigating an organization, building trust, and managing disagreements to make collaboration productive.

A curious and rigorous thinker committed to integrity, accuracy, and fairness.

Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

Familiarity with editorial platforms such as Airtable.

Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, including the ability to delegate effectively.

Excellent time management and project management skills.

Familiarity with AI tools (ChatGPT, Claude) is a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

The full‑time annual compensation range for this position is $100,000–$110,000, depending on experience.

In addition to competitive salaries, CFR provides employees with an outstanding benefits package.

#J-18808-Ljbffr