Job title updated on 7/22/26 - No changes to role scope

Department: Marketing, Communications and Content
Reports to: Senior Vice President, Academy Studios
Job Type: Full-Time - Regular
Job Classification: Salaried (Exempt)
Workplace Location: Hybrid - Los Angeles - 8949 Wilshire
Compensation: $110,000.00 - $120,000.00

Summary/Objective:
The Director, YouTube Strategy and Operations serves as the strategic lead for Academy Studios' YouTube digital video content representing the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, and the Oscars. Reporting to the SVP, Academy Studios and working closely with the Sr. Director, Academy Studios, this role develops and oversees the Academy Studios YouTube content strategy, programming calendar, audience growth initiatives, performance analysis, and distribution planning to ensure content aligns with institutional priorities, audience insights, and platform best practices.

The Director will combine deep knowledge of YouTube analytics and optimization with strong creative and production experience. They will partner with internal and external collaborators to shape data-informed creative initiatives and platform-specific formats and ensure all content reflects the Academy's distinctive voice and brand.

This role requires deep, hands-on YouTube expertise. The ideal candidate has significant experience managing and optimizing YouTube channels, including publishing workflows, thumbnail and title strategy, A/B testing, audience development, performance analysis, monetization, and platform best practices. This is not a general digital marketing, brand strategy, or content production role.

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Design and maintain the annual YouTube content strategy and publishing calendar, as approved by the SVP, Academy Studios, and in collaboration with the Senior Director, Academy Studios.
• Define strategy and oversee the execution, scheduling, and distribution of all Academy, Academy Museum, and Oscars video content across YouTube and associated platforms.
• Own channel optimization, including content packaging, audience segmentation, metadata strategy, publishing cadence, performance analysis, and testing initiatives designed to increase viewership, engagement, and subscriber growth.
• Analyze and translate performance data and audience insights to inform future programming decisions and creative development.
• Partner with producers, designers, editors, and creative partners to ensure that all content is on brand, high quality, and aligned with Academy messaging.
• Manage strategic partnerships with YouTube representatives to identify emerging tools, trends, and content opportunities.
• Partner with YouTube, digital collaborators, and the SVP and Sr. Director, Academy Studios to pilot new formats, amplify reach, and innovate how audiences experience Academy content.
• Work cross-functionally with the Oscars and Academy marketing, communications, and social teams to coordinate releases and ensure unified messaging.
• Lead ideation and content strategy for award season programming.
• Establish YouTube performance benchmarks, generate regular analytics reports, and communicate results and recommendations to the SVP, Academy Studios.
• Establish and oversee delivery workflows to ensure timely, efficient releases.
• Uphold the Academy's commitment to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion across all content creation.

Required Competencies:

• A bachelor's degree in Film, Communications, Marketing, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• 6+ years of professional experience in large-scale YouTube channel management, digital content strategy and/or production, including demonstrated success growing audiences, developing content strategies, and using analytics to drive channel performance.
• Deep understanding of YouTube analytics, audience growth strategies, SEO, and content optimization.
• Experience planning and executing digital content calendars and distribution strategies.
• Strong creative and storytelling instincts, particularly for short-form and mid-form digital video.
• Excellent leadership skills with experience managing internal teams and freelance talent.
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, YouTube Studio, and analytics dashboards (Google Analytics, TubeBuddy, vidIQ, etc.).
• Exceptional organizational and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across multiple departments.
• A commitment to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion.
• Availability to work extended hours during awards season and other high-profile Academy events.

Required Vaccination: Full vaccination against COVID-19 is required, including any booster vaccinations as applicable. Exception: Medical and religious accommodations approved by the Office of People & Culture.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 15 days of PTO, plus company-paid holidays.
• Additional time off including summer hours, winter hours, and a cultural floating holiday.
• Paid sick leave.
• Paid parental leave.
• 401k retirement plan with a company match
• Clean Air Commuter Program
• Employee Assistance Program through CompPsych Guidance Resources.
• Wellness benefits through Cigna Healthcare.
• Free access to 16,000+ online courses through LinkedIn Learning
• Free Academy membership screenings
• Free tickets and screenings at the Academy Museum
• Employee discounts through LifeMart and Working Advantage

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