The Harris Theater, located in Millennium Park downtown Chicago, is a progressive and growing arts organization. The Theater seeks a seasoned Senior Manager, PR and Communications with 8 plus years experience for this full time position.
The Senior Manager, PR and Communications, under the direction of the Executive Vice President of External Affairs, is responsible for actively engaging members of the press and media through a strategic pr plan and increasing the Harris Theater’s regional and national visibility. This position is part of a high-energy collaborative marketing team focused on audience development, ticket sales and attendance goals for Harris Theater Presents and Family Series performances. This position is supported by a Marketing Coordinator.
Primary Responsibilities
• Develop and execute high-level PR Communications strategy
• Support ticket revenue goals and audience development through PR and Media relations
• Extend the Harris Theater brand through industry, trade media, multimedia and social media tactics
• Represent the Theater and forge strong relationships with external and internal community partners
• Actively pitch national, regional, and online media outlets for feature stories
• Write all press releases, media alerts
• Edit, project manage and contribute content for the Theater’s donor newsletter, performance program books, and online e-newsletters
• Collaborate with Marketing and Sales teams to ensure Theater website supports PR, engages media and has robust offerings for media personnel
• Craft language for speaking engagements by Harris personnel, and special events
• Collaborate with external affairs team to develop messaging on behalf the theater
• Respond to external requests for information about the Theater, and coordinate with members of Executive team to align all messaging
• Plan and execute philanthropy announcements and placements in periodicals
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in English, Marketing, Communications, Journalism or related field
• 8 plus years of experience working in performing arts, non-profit and/or communications industry with demonstrated success placing stories in the media
• Excellent writing and proofreading skills with assiduous attention to detail
• Knowledge of emerging communication technologies
• Outstanding verbal communications, interpersonal skills and the ability to deal with a variety of personalities with tact and diplomacy
• Ability to act with great judgment, confidence, and personal initiative
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast paced environment
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends
• Experience with project management and proven record of successful ability to meeting project timelines
• Professional demeanor and ability to work independently and as a team player
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Sense of humor a must
Compensation
• This position is full-time plus benefits
Candidates should submit their resumes, writing samples and cover letter.
Music and Dance Theater Chicago, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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