Digital Media Manager, Photography and Video

Job no: 498988
Work type: Staff Full-time
Department: Communications and Public Affairs
Location: Wilf Campus, 500 West 185th Street, NY, NY
Categories: Communications/Marketing/Media

Position Summary:

The Digital Media Manager for Photography and Video oversees the development and execution of photography and video content that defines how the university is seen across all platforms. This role requires a highly skilled visual storyteller with strong production management experience-someone who can independently create compelling work while also directing others and managing complex workflows.

The Manager, reporting to the Senior Director of Marketing Communications, oversees a freelance team and collaborates across academic and administrative units to ensure a cohesive and high-performing digital presence.

The ideal candidate combines creative judgment with operational excellence, bringing a refined visual perspective, the ability to prioritize effectively, and a track record of delivering high-quality work under deadline.

Position Highlights:

• High-visibility role with direct impact on the university's public-facing brand
• Balance of hands-on creative work and leadership responsibilities
• Opportunity to shape and elevate visual storytelling across a dynamic institution

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:

• Availability for some evenings and weekends as required for event coverage
• Hybrid with on-campus presence required - schedule may change for event/academic seasons
• Ability to move between locations and transport photography/video equipment

Position Responsibilities:

Content Creation & Creative Leadership:

• Oversee the production of high-quality photography, including event coverage, portraiture/headshots, and environmental imagery, and film and edit video content, including interviews, institutional storytelling, and promotional pieces - with the help of a robust freelance team
• Exercise strong creative judgment in framing, lighting, and storytelling, with minimal oversight
• Identify and capture moments that elevate the university's brand beyond standard event documentation

Project & Production Management:

• Own the full lifecycle of projects from concept through delivery, balancing multiple priorities and deadlines
• Develop shot lists, production plans, and timelines aligned with stakeholder goals
• Oversee freelance photographers and videographers in New York and Israel, ensuring consistency in quality and style
• Work closely with internal stakeholders, including senior administration, admissions, alumni relations, academic departments, and leadership

Digital Asset & Workflow Management:

• Organize and maintain a robust digital asset library of photography and video content
• Ensure proper tagging, usage rights, and accessibility of media assets

Strategy & Digital Execution:

• Partner with marketing and social teams to develop content strategies that drive engagement across web, social, email, and campaigns
• Optimize visual content for various platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, website, etc.)
• Identify trends in digital storytelling and bring fresh, relevant ideas to the team

This role is best suited for candidates who are comfortable working both independently and collaboratively, and who take ownership of their work from concept through final delivery.

Experience & Educational Background:

• Degree in Photography, Cinematography, Media Production, or related field, or equivalent professional experience
• 5+ years of professional experience in photography and/or videography/editing
• A strong, well-developed portfolio demonstrating event photography, portraiture/headshots, and/or visual storytelling

Skills & Competencies:

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects independently and deliver under tight deadlines
• Experience directing or managing freelance creatives
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Lightroom, Photoshop, Premiere Pro; After Effects a plus)
• Strong technical command of lighting, audio, and production workflows
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Experience in higher education, nonprofit, or mission-driven organizations (preferred)
• Familiarity with digital asset management systems (preferred)
• Experience contributing to or maintaining visual brand standards (preferred)

Application Instructions:

Applicants must submit:

• Resume
• Portfolio demonstrating photography or video work (required)
• Optional cover letter

Salary Range:

$120,000 - $155,000, based on experience and portfolio strength