Manager (Deputy Director) of Public Relations - Non-Classical

The John F. Kennedy Center•Washington, DC

59d•$75,000 - $85,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Manager (Deputy Director) of Public Relations, Non-Classical is responsible for managing the strategic communications and public relations efforts of the Kennedy Center and its non-classical programming. This position serves as the lead publicist on Dance programs, Comedy, and Performances for Young Audiences and is an essential partner to the Director of Public Relations, Non-Classical. Additionally, this role works across the center, as directed, to raise the national profile of the Center as the national cultural center, presidential memorial, and a hub for education across the country. This role will be a key partner to the Non-Classical constituent organizations of the Kennedy Center, delivering high-impact international, national, and local earned media coverage to elevate the profile of the respective organizations and projects. The role serves as a contact between members press and those artists appearing at the Kennedy Center across the spectrum of performances in the non-classical portfolio. She/he must have highly effective communication skills (both verbal and written), and be able to move efficiently and resolve any conflicts in a public, dynamic, fast-paced, high-pressure atmosphere. As a member of the Kennedy Center Public Relations Office, they will assist the team for Center-wide initiatives, including major festivals, and high-profile events such as the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and Kennedy Center Honors. They will work closely with programming departments, as well as theater managers, the Box Office, development and various other Kennedy Center staff.

Requirements

At least 4 - 6 years of public relations experience, including responsibility for high-level strategic communications and messaging
Long and short-term PR planning ranging from national to grassroots efforts
Strong media experience in both the arts and non-arts
A solution-oriented, creative, and independent spirit and collaborative nature
Outstanding writing and editing skills.
Personal characteristics of poise, calm, and composure in stressful, crisis communications situations.
Demonstrated supervisory skills and a capacity to build strong relationships.
Ability to multi-task and respond quickly to requests from journalists/editors, photo desks, as well as internal departments and artistic/executive leadership.
Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area. Relocation assistance is not provided.
Candidate must be willing to work onsite.

Nice To Haves

An appreciation and understanding of theater and its inner workings is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Publicity, Media Relations, and Strategy: This position will develop and execute publicity plans by devising potential story ideas, crafting pitches, and shepherding stories to completion. They will develop and nurture journalist and digital media relationships (ex. streaming media outlets, podcasts, and other non-traditional media). This person has excellent PR instincts and can think strategically to generate significant and meaningful visibility for the Non-Classical constituents and programs at the Kennedy Center. Fosters and maintains local, national, and international media contacts. Formulates and executes press plans, inclusive of non-traditional media, for programs across Ballet/Dance, Comedy, Theater, and Performances for Young Audiences at the Kennedy Center. Uses superb writing skills to create press releases and media advisories including announcements for full series, special performances, recurring/annual events, and ongoing initiatives.
Internal/External Communication: The person will feel comfortable working in a complex, highly matrixed environment. This position will be a key partner to the Kennedy Center's Non-Classical constituents by communicating plans and delivering in a timely manner. They will work with managers cross-institutionally to develop and execute strong messaging and manage flow and distribution of information. Engages with external artists and publicists in promoting Kennedy Center non-classical performances. Works with colleagues across the center for the creation of self-generated storytelling that advances the impact and reach of the Kennedy Center and its work.
Writing and Project Management: This position will write, edit, and distribute Non-Classical press releases throughout the season and be responsible for drafting media pitches to further position the Center for positive news stories and earned media. They will work closely with social media team, sharing earned media as suggested content for organic social media posts consistent with strategic communications goals. Assists media onsite (including reviewers, photographers, videographers, and crews) during performances, following and enforcing the Center's policies and coordinates with programming departments so all are aware of media presence.
Other Assignments: As an integral member of the Kennedy Center PR team, work related to other Kennedy Center events, initiatives, and special projects, such as Kennedy Center Honors, the Mark Twain Prize, the REACH, and other festivals, series, and performances will be assigned as needed. Oversees Kennedy Center Public Relations Coordinator and Interns.

Benefits

Staff offers for discount tickets
Retirement plan with organization matching (after 1 year of employment)
Qualifying employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
Commuter programs including pre-tax options for discounted parking and SmartBenefits (WMATA)
Annual Leave, Sick Leave, and Personal Days available immediately upon hire
13 paid holidays per year
Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits with FSA and HSA options, and paid FMLA

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