Photo Editor/Visual Asset Manager

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Job description

Photo Editor/Visual Asset Manager

Our Arlington-based staff continues to work remotely and visit the office on a limited basis. When our office officially opens, in-office work schedules/locations will be determined in accordance with CI policies and in keeping with the role's responsibilities. Hiring managers will provide guidance on hybrid or blended work schedules for the role in question when a candidate is contacted for an interview.

Conservation International (CI) has been protecting nature for the benefit of all for over 30 years. Through science, policy, and partnerships, CI is helping build a healthier, more prosperous, and more productive planet.

POSITION SUMMARY

As a key member of the Brand and Communications team, reporting to the Senior Graphic Designer, the Photo Editor/Visual Asset Manager is responsible for maintaining Conservation International's high visual standards, while ensuring that photo imagery is aligned with the organization's brand and mission. The ideal candidate should have a strong passion for photography and visual storytelling of all kinds and should possess a broad knowledge of the current photographic landscape. It is important for this position to understand the significance of visual imagery and to conceptualize the most impactful way to tell stories visually.

The Photo Editor/Visual Asset Manager is responsible for researching, selecting, editing, and positioning both licensed and commissioned photography. They also manage Conservation International's digital asset library, which includes ingesting, tagging, and organizing assets, ensuring appropriate legal documentation for incoming and outgoing photos (for example, subject appearance release forms, location release forms, noted restrictions) logo files, and major campaign video assets. Providing guidance, tools, and training to Conservation International staff on the best and most appropriate use of photography for storytelling and how to use the digital asset library is also a key responsibility of this position.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Photo Standards and Storytelling:

* Maintain a strong editorial voice and sensibility through a smart selection of photography.
* Research and select photos for institutional products, including press releases, websites, social media channels, publications, presentations, donor reports, videos, photo loops, exhibits, and more.
* Collaborate with writers, designers, partner marketing, and channel managers for visual asset support.
* Collaborate with producers to generate video ideas.
* Work collaboratively with the Design and Marketing teams on story concepts, determining which stories require commissioned photography.
* Ensure that the best and most appropriate imagery per specific needs is delivered in a timely and efficient manner.
* Manage and organize the Conservation International asset management system, especially ensuring appropriate legal documentation for incoming and outgoing photos and logo files. Liaise with the office of general counsel.
* Manage and execute photo license agreements for all Conservation International photos and non-Conservation International photos.
* Manage usage rights on all stock photography licenses.
* Educate others Conservation International employees about the legal importance of photo licenses and maintaining quality standards.
* Manage the distribution of Conservation International logos to partners and outside vendors through our digital asset management system, including determining if the logo use is appropriate and executing service mark agreements accordingly.

Procurement:

* Seek new opportunities to build the Conservation International visual library by commissioning photographers to shoot new photography when budgets allow. Create shot lists, photo assignments, and other materials to help photographers understand the angle of the story and opportunities on the shoot.
* Negotiate fees and manage shoot budgets and timelines with photographers.
* Provide feedback to photographers on their assignments.
* Work with the Conservation International legal team to ensure that all newly procured assets are contracted and documented in the organization's best interests.
* Proactively work to develop partnerships with organizations or individuals to grow our photo library with minimal financial investment.

Training Programs:

* Lead efforts to implement new photography and training programs, including throughout Conservation International to better leverage the talent within our organization. From training staff on how to use the asset management system to offering photography tips to field staff, the Multimedia Manager/Photo Editor will be the central resource for photography knowledge and advice.

Administrative Duties/Material Ordering:

* Assist with reviewing and lead ordering CI branded materials, calendars, holiday cards, etc.

WORKING CONDITIONS

* This position is based in Arlington, VA.
* Normal office environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

* Bachelor's degree
* 4-6 years of related work experience, including experience managing Digital Asset Management systems and commissioning photography.
* Excellent written and oral communications skills.
* Self-starter with the ability to multi-task.
* Solid understanding of all facets of metadata strategy, including related methodologies and search functionality.
* Proficient in Photoshop, Lightroom, and other Adobe programs, converting various file formats, Macs.
* Working knowledge of and experience with intellectual property rights, personal property rights, and copyright law. Knowledge of the stock image industry, including rates.
* Must be a team player and have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
* Must be able to quickly adapt to a rapidly changing environment that will include many non-routine assignments with tight deadlines.

Preferred

* An interest in environmental conservation and/or experience in the non-profit sector.
* Video editing and graphic design experience are a plus.

To apply for this position please submit a resume and cover letter.

See all Conservation International Career Opportunities HERE

Conservation International is an Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Vets/Disabled