Director of Communications and Public Relations

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Responsible for creating/implementing communications strategies that help to achieve the CSOA’s overarching goal of growing awareness and support for the Orchestra and CSOA activities in Chicago and around the world. Oversee a department that leads all external and internal communications, including media relations/publicity, digital/social initiatives, content development and brand messaging.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Lead a team responsible for developing and implementing a proactive external communications strategy in support of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Associations’ mission, goals and strategic priorities. 
2. Leverage the global brand of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and its Music Director, Riccardo Muti, to grow national and international awareness and support for the Orchestra. 
3. Develop and implement publicity strategies for the CSO residency activities of Music Director Riccardo Muti including the release of CSO Resound recordings in order to secure advance coverage as well as reviews and feature articles in local, national and international media outlets. 
4. Lead communications efforts for important annual institutional moments such as the CSOA Annual Meeting and Season Announcement. 
5. Create and implement ongoing, integrated social media strategies for CSOA programs including the activities of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Symphony Chorus, Negaunee Music Institute and Symphony Center Presents with support from the CSO’s team of social media content contributors. 
6. Articulate and amplify the voice of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association through new and existing digital channels. 
7. Cultivate relationships with media and key influencers nationally and internationally. 
8. Oversee the development and execution of publicity plans for concerts and events to drive awareness, attendance and sales. 
9. Oversee media relations surrounding the student and community engagement programs of the Negaunee Music Institute. 
10. Ensure seamless internal/external brand messaging. 
11. Develop key messaging and manage media relations surrounding high-profile events. 
12. Contribute to the development and oversight of budgets for the overall fiscal year and individual projects, as well as the accurate tracking of expenses and department billings. 
13. Performs other duties as assigned. 

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

1. Reports to the Vice President for Sales and Marketing. 
2. Supervises Associate Director of Communications and Public Relations and Public Relations Coordinator.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

1. Minimum of seven to ten years in increasingly responsible communications positions in the non-profit performing arts community 
2. Bachelor's degree is required; advanced degree preferred 
3. Knowledge of classical music is required 
4. Background in and knowledge of brand communications within the arts/entertainment industry 
5. Proven track record in the creation, execution and management of creative, successful communications strategies and campaigns 
6. Highly collegial and enthusiastic about working closely with the Music Director, Members of the Orchestra, and with all other administrative departments 
7. Recognize the role that communications plays within achieving an organization's broader goals as well as possess the ability to connect messaging on initiatives across the organization and leverage for broader impact 
8. Willingness and ability to work evenings and weekends, and on a limited basis to travel on behalf of the organization 
9. Capacity to work under pressure and to manage multiple projects simultaneously