Assistant Director of Public Relations

University of Texas at Austin • Austin, TX

37d • $78,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Director of Public Relations is responsible for developing and executing the museum's public relations strategy to enhance visibility, strengthen reputation, and expand engagement with local, regional, and national audiences. This position oversees media relations, press outreach, partnerships, advertising, and internal communications while producing compelling written content-including press releases, media kits, copywriting, and editing-to ensure consistent and effective storytelling. The role works closely with senior leadership, curators, and marketing colleagues to amplify the Blanton's exhibitions, programs, collections, and initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or related field.
• At least five years of progressively responsible experience in public relations, media relations, or communications; 3-5 years supervisory or leadership experience.
• Proven experience writing press releases, speeches, and public-facing communications.
• Strong media relationships and demonstrated ability to secure press coverage across multiple platforms.
• Demonstrated experience with advertising strategy and media buying.
• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in communications, arts administration, or related field.
• Experience in museums, cultural institutions, higher education, or nonprofit organizations.
• Knowledge of Austin and Texas media landscape.
• Familiarity with project, design, and digital content management tools (e.g., Asana, Adobe Creative Suite, Meltwater, etc.).
• Experience preparing leadership and curators for press interviews.
• Experience managing partnerships and sponsorship activations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement proactive PR strategies that promote the museum's mission, exhibitions, programs, and initiatives.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with local, regional, national, and international media outlets, serving as the museum's primary press contact.
• Oversee collaboration with the external PR firm to expand national and international visibility and earned media opportunities.
• Plan and coordinate press previews, media events, and opening receptions to secure impactful media coverage.
• Develop and manage advertising strategies, including negotiating and executing media buys across print, radio, digital, outdoor, and broadcast platforms.
• Monitor, track, and report on media coverage, PR performance, and advertising ROI to inform strategy and maximize reach.
• Draft, edit, and distribute press releases, media kits, fact sheets, and official statements, ensuring clear, compelling, and consistent storytelling.
• Write, edit, and proofread communications across channels, maintaining a unified brand voice and translating curatorial and program content into clear language.
• Prepare and coach leadership, curators, and staff for interviews through talking points, briefings, and media training.
• Lead and mentor direct reports to foster professionalism, accountability, and a high-performing, collaborative team culture.
• Build promotional and cross-marketing partnerships with cultural organizations, corporate sponsors, and tourism partners while representing the Blanton at museum events, networking events, and community forums.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Benefits eligible Blanton Museum of Art staff enjoy the same competitive benefits, programs and services available to the University of Texas at Austin employees.
• Blanton staff also have access to complimentary admission to the museum, selected museum events, and a 20% discount at the Museum Store.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees