Publicity Assistant

Stratford Festival • Stratford, ON

21h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Publicity Assistant supports media relations and publicity activities by coordinating media monitoring, maintaining databases, and assisting with the development and distribution of communications materials. This role prepares daily media scans, manages media lists, coordinates interviews and ticket requests, and drafts and edits content such as press releases, biographies, and web materials, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and a high standard of presentation.

Reporting to the Publicist (Media Manager), the Publicity Assistant works collaboratively with Marketing, Artistic, and Production teams, as well as external media partners, to support awareness and engagement with Festival programming. The role also contributes to the organization, tracking, and maintenance of media coverage and digital content, providing broad exposure to Festival-wide communications and production activity.

Requirements

• University undergraduate degree (four year program) or equivalent (i.e. BA, BSc, BComm, etc) in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1 to 2 years of related experience, preferably within the arts, entertainment, or cultural sector.
• Strong written and editing skills, with demonstrated ability to draft clear, accurate, and engaging content (e.g., media materials, correspondence, briefing notes).
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a professional, service-oriented approach to working with internal stakeholders, artists, and external media contacts.
• Ability to handle sensitive or confidential information with discretion and sound judgment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and familiarity with media monitoring tools and contact databases.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends in support of events, media calls, or opening nights.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with media monitoring tools and contact databases.

Responsibilities

• Monitor, compile, and distribute daily media coverage and press clippings related to the Festival and broader theatre industry.
• Research, track, and maintain accurate media coverage databases, ensuring proper documentation and archival referencing.
• Maintain and update media contact lists and related databases to support effective media outreach.
• Coordinate media ticket requests and support media attendance at Festival events, including opening nights, photo calls, and selected rehearsals as required.
• Compile, edit, and proofread biographies for Festival staff and artists, ensuring consistency and a high standard of quality.
• Coordinate the collection and organization of artist and production headshots.
• Arrange and facilitate media interviews, acting as a liaison between media representatives and Festival personnel.
• Respond to media inquiries and provide accurate information regarding Festival programming and activities.
• Draft and edit press materials, including news releases and content for various publications, as required.
• Write and edit photo credits and alternative text for accessibility and publication standards.
• Create, update, and maintain digital content, including website materials, online image galleries, and press resources.
• Conduct research to support publicity initiatives and media engagement strategies.
• Ensure all work adheres to established standards for accuracy, timeliness, and brand consistency.
• Participate in cross-departmental coordination for publicity and communications initiatives across the Festival.
• Adhere to the Stratford Festival Health & Safety Commitment and Procedures, and ensure that safe work practices and policies are supported and enforced within reporting structure.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Paid operational shutdown in December, with flexibility of days being used at alternative times during the year
• Group Insurance Benefits
• Employer matched RRSP
• Employee Assistance Program to encourage work-life balance and strong mental health
• Complimentary & discounted ticket offers and events
• Employee discounts on merchandise and event space

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees