About The Foundation For Defense Of Democracies
FDD is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) research institute in Washington, DC, focused on national security and foreign policy. Since 2001, FDD has produced independent, non-partisan research and analysis to strengthen U.S. national security and support free societies.
Position Overview
The Senior Director of Podcasts will be FDD’s first dedicated senior leader for its podcast vertical, inheriting four established shows and the mandate to build the systems, team, and vision to elevate them into a consistently excellent, growing platform. The ideal candidate brings equal parts passion and diplomacy: genuine conviction about the craft and the subject matter, paired with the interpersonal skill to earn the trust and creative confidence of FDD’s executive hosts.
Key Responsibilities
- Editorial Leadership: Assume editorial ownership of FDD’s podcast vertical, establishing narrative direction, programming priorities, content standards, and long-term strategic vision in close partnership with show hosts
- Develop episode concepts, shape interview briefs, and ensure every show reflects editorial quality, subject-matter rigor, and brand identity
- Serve as primary editorial and operational liaison for all podcast hosts, managing scheduling, communications, episode logistics, and creative expectations
- Support guest outreach and booking coordination; build and maintain logistical infrastructure
- Identify and pursue opportunities to grow the lineup, expand reach, and develop new show formats
- Production & Systems: Own the full production lifecycle across all four shows from pre-production through post-production, publishing, and multi-platform distribution
- Build reliable, repeatable production systems that reduce variability and establish consistent release cadences
- Maintain high standards for audio quality and technical excellence
Required Qualifications
- Editorial and content strategy background
- Substantive familiarity with U.S. foreign policy and national security issues
- Strong interpersonal and leadership skills
- Experience managing podcast production and distribution
FDD’s podcast lineup includes Foreign Podicy, The Iran Breakdown, Generation Jihad, and The FDD Morning Brief, reaching a national and international audience of policymakers, analysts, journalists, and engaged citizens.