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About The Kennedy Center “I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra.  At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law.  Mission Statement: As America's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across the United States and around the world, connecting the greatest living artists with audiences of every stripe, no matter their background. We welcome all Americans and creators and visitors from across the globe to discover, experience, learn about, be inspired by, and engage with the arts. Why Join Us We offer a total rewards package to all full-time employees to include:  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 Pay Details The Kennedy Center strives to design equitable compensation programs. The projected salary range for this position is $75,000 - $85,000, commensurate with experience, and includes a comprehensive benefits package. This is the targeted range of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. This range may be modified in the future. Base pay within the range is ultimately determined by a candidate’s skills, expertise, and experience as it relates to the position qualifications and responsibilities. Job Description 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. Key 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.   Key Qualifications 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 An appreciation and understanding of theater and its inner workings is preferred but not required. 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.  Additional Information Frequent night and weekend work as required by performance schedules. PR staff at the Kennedy Center share the responsibilities of concert duty, amounting to 1-2 performances weekly on average for most positions. Travel of up to 5% may be required.

About The Kennedy Center “I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra.  At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law.  Mission Statement: As America's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across the United States and around the world, connecting the greatest living artists with audiences of every stripe, no matter their background. We welcome all Americans and creators and visitors from across the globe to discover, experience, learn about, be inspired by, and engage with the arts. Why Join Us We offer a total rewards package to all full-time employees to include:  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 Pay Details The Kennedy Center strives to design equitable compensation programs. The projected salary range for this position is $45,000 - $53,000, commensurate with experience, and includes a comprehensive benefits package. This is the targeted range of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. This range may be modified in the future. Base pay within the range is ultimately determined by a candidate’s skills, expertise, and experience as it relates to the position qualifications and responsibilities. Job Description The Public Relations Coordinator is a frontline representative of the Kennedy Center Public Relations team, working internally across departments and externally with media, vendors, patrons, and others to coordinate day-to-day operations of the PR department. This position is an essential partner to the Vice President, Public Relations, and to the Director, Public Relations both Classical and Non-Classical, as well as the entirety of the department. The role is critical in generating high-impact news coverage of the Kennedy Center’s activities and positively reinforcing the Kennedy Center brand. Primary responsibilities include gathering materials, editing, and managing approval of content, including press releases and media advisories; managing image requests; staffing press nights and performances as needed (typically 1-2 times per week), developing and managing media lists; daily monitoring of news clips; and administrative tasks, including budget tracking, invoicing, and contracting. Additionally, the Public Relations Coordinator will assist the Vice President and Directors with institutional events, including PR logistics for major events such as the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, the Kennedy Center Honors, season announcements, and other special events. The coordinator will also provide support for the Deputy Director, Public Relations, Classical during times of absence or time-intensive projects, on an as-needed and limited basis. Key Responsibilities In collaboration with the Deputy Director, Public Relations, Classical, the coordinator creates and manages press materials, edits per Kennedy Center style, and routes internally and externally. Involves interns in office projects and activities as appropriate. Manages administrative tasks, including budget tracking, invoicing, contracting, media monitoring, photography processing, and travel booking. Acts as administrative support to the VP of PR, scheduling meetings, reserving space, and formatting presentations. With the Deputy Director, Public Relations, Classical, reviews and deploys daily clip reports. Takes inventory and orders office supplies as needed. Acts as an assistant supervisor to guide the office’s pair of interns in the day-to-day office practices. Supports the Vice President and Directors of Public Relations in coordinating major events and initiatives. Responsibilities include coordinating PR logistics for special events, including Kennedy Center Honors, Mark Twain Prize, press dinners/conferences/events, etc. The coordinator works across departments to develop invitations; track RSVPs, coordinate event set-up, food/beverage service, arrange parking/arrival logistics, security, prepare event materials to distribute to the PR team and other departments, and other performance/event needs as required. May staff interviews, staffing news cameras, serving as a back-up on press nights, and otherwise serving as a back-up for press reps’ designated performances. Services patron inquiries and third-party requests for images and materials, including non-commercial photography and documentary requests. Collaborates with the office of Legal Counsel, the Directors of Public Relations, and the VP of Public Relations to create photography/location agreements for location shoots and asset licensing. Other duties as assigned Key Qualifications A Bachelor’s degree is required Background in or knowledge of the performing arts. Excellent writing and copyediting skills, as well as experience with publications, are required. 2+ years of professional experience in media relations preferred. Working familiarity with the digital media landscape and strategy is a plus. Microsoft Office Suite, be able to learn and adapt to changing technology Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area. Relocation assistance is not provided.  Candidate must be willing to work onsite.  Additional Information Travel up to 2% may be required (i.e., off-site press events).

About The Kennedy Center “I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra.  At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law.  Mission Statement: As America's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across the United States and around the world, connecting the greatest living artists with audiences of every stripe, no matter their background. We welcome all Americans and creators and visitors from across the globe to discover, experience, learn about, be inspired by, and engage with the arts. Why Join Us We offer a total rewards package to all full-time employees to include:  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 Pay Details The Kennedy Center strives to design equitable compensation programs. The projected salary range for this position is $110,000 - $130,000, commensurate with experience, and includes a comprehensive benefits package. This is the targeted range of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. This range may be modified in the future. Base pay within the range is ultimately determined by a candidate’s skills, expertise, and experience as it relates to the position qualifications and responsibilities. Job Description The Director of Public Relations (Classical) is responsible for maintaining and enhancing the awareness, public image, and reputation of the Kennedy Center and its two resident artistic affiliates—the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO), helmed by Music Director Gianandrea Noseda and Executive Director Jean Davidson, and Washington National Opera (WNO), led by Artistic Director Francesca Zambello and General Director Timothy O’Leary—alongside distinctive music series including the Fortas Chamber Music Series (Artistic Director Jennifer Koh). The Director’s primary focus is to support the artistic vision of the above by helping to craft key messages and storylines, actively pursuing and delivering coverage and visibility through local, national, and international media placements, new media, self-generated content and storytelling, and by influencing a range of platforms including the Center’s social media and website. By deepening existing relationships with arts journalists and developing new connections to entice new writers, editors, and producers to cover the NSO and WNO, The Director will expand feature coverage nationally and globally. In an increasingly changing media landscape, the public relations team seeks to leverage new opportunities through multiple, non-traditional media channels and creatively spur interest among new, diverse audiences in symphonic, operatic, and chamber music repertoire and experiences. This role will also work in close coordination with the Center’s marketing department to execute strategies that support seasonal marketing and on-sale initiatives to build audiences and achieve earned revenue goals. The Director is a frontline representative of the Public Relations team and will help to manage the day-to-day strategy and media operations of a fast-paced PR office, directing artistic and program announcements, leveraging publicity opportunities, driving media cultivation, and determining positioning of institutional news and issues related to the full range of its classical music activities and related music education and community engagement projects. Reporting to the VP of Public Relations, this position will also work closely and proactively with them and other senior/executive leadership, providing strategic input and guidance as it relates to all variety of communications, including crisis communications. This position regularly collaborates with external artistic partners, vendors, and publicists/managers to coordinate publicity efforts. The Director will supervise a team of two direct reports: Deputy Director and Associate Director. Additionally, as part of the execution of strategic communications campaigns throughout the season for the NSO and WNO, this role will craft and lead internal communications to ensure broad awareness and alignment throughout the NSO, WNO, and the Center and among its key stakeholders.   Key Responsibilities Publicity & Media Relations: Design and implement comprehensive public relations strategies that support and leverage the unparalleled breadth, vibrancy and excellence of the classical music offerings at the Kennedy Center. Help to craft and deliver a message that consistently positions the Center and its affiliates (NSO and WNO) as enterprising arts leaders across America and internationally. Assign, write, review, and edit press releases and media communications that reflect the artistic vision and mission of the Center and its artistic affiliates. Primary areas of discipline and focus: National Symphony Orchestra (classical, Pops, education and outreach programs), Washington National Opera (WNO, Cafritz Young Artists, education and outreach programs), Fortas Chamber Music Series, and Renee Fleming VOICES. Media Affairs: Develop relationships with a key target list of industry press contacts and continue building an open line of communication to develop positive narratives from the media about the Kennedy Center and it’s programming. Proactive outreach daily to ensure there is a consistent drumbeat in the public about the works being done here. Draft and edit media pitch and other outreach necessary for a constant presence in the press. Internal Coordination: Work proactively and initiate/attend regular meetings with senior and artistic leadership, directors, and managers cross-institutionally to develop and execute strong messaging and manage flow and distribution of information. Use public relations expertise to contribute creative ideas that will generate buzz, reach a broad range of media (beyond arts and culture reporters), and cultivate new audiences for classical music. Management of staff: Provide leadership and guidance to deputy director and associate director in their work towards meeting job objectives and goals. Work with direct reports on long-range PR planning and short and long-term campaigns and direct efforts to achieve maximum publicity for Kennedy Center events, artists, and stories. Special Events: As a senior member of the Kennedy Center Public Relations Office, assist and support team for the Center’s marquee award events including the Kennedy Center Honors (December), the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor (Spring), and other Center-wide special events including major international festivals and other initiatives to generate a higher profile of the Kennedy Center locally, nationally, and internationally. Content Generation/Production: Work closely with social media team, sharing earned media as suggested content for organic social media posts consistent with strategic communications goals. Advise on the voice, messaging, and branding of the NSO and WNO’s social media accounts. Finance/Budget: Oversee and manage budget for PR-related expenditures (i.e. photography, media event costs) for NSO and WNO throughout the year. Work with Classical PR Coordinator to routinely track invoices and expenses and ensure timely payment for vendors.    Other duties as assigned. Key Qualifications Minimum of 8 years of strategic public relations management experience, and a least three years in a supervisory capacity. Demonstrated publicity results on a national level and proven success at managing complex issues in a fast-paced environment. Established and constructive relationships with key journalists and national media outlets highly valued for this position (arts beat and editorial leadership relationships, but also general features/mainstream reporters). Bachelor’s degree required; public relations or communications degree a plus. Candidates with appreciation and expansive knowledge of classical music and the performing arts are preferred but not required. Strong interpersonal skills to interact professionally, graciously, and maturely with media, artists, managers/publicists, outside consultants, vendors, trustees, and a variety of other internal and external constituents.  High-level strategic communication skills and ability to successfully execute high-profile PR campaigns that raise awareness, appreciation, and profile. 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 teams. 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. Additional Information Night and weekend work as required by performance schedules. PR staff at the Kennedy Center share the responsibilities of concert duty, amounting to 1-2 performances weekly on average for most positions. Travel of up to 5% may be required.

About The Kennedy Center   “I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy   The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra.    At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law.    Mission Statement: As America's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across the United States and around the world, connecting the greatest living artists with audiences of every stripe, no matter their background. We welcome all Americans and creators and visitors from across the globe to discover, experience, learn about, be inspired by, and engage with the arts.   Why Join Us   We offer a total rewards package to all full-time employees to include:    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   Pay Details   The Kennedy Center strives to design equitable compensation programs. The projected salary range for this position is $45,000 - $53,000, commensurate with experience, and includes a comprehensive benefits package. This is the targeted range of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. This range may be modified in the future. Base pay within the range is ultimately determined by a candidate’s skills, expertise, and experience as it relates to the position qualifications and responsibilities.   Job Description     The Development Office at the Kennedy Center is a vibrant, dynamic, and creative group of over 50 professionals responsible for finding new, creative, sustainable, and efficient ways to meet or exceed the institution’s over $70M annual contributed income goal.  These funds support the organization’s extraordinary programming—world class performances on our many stages at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.; local, regional, and national education programs reaching students, teachers, families, and budding artists; and community-driven social impact programming that upholds the legacy of President Kennedy in our role as his presidential memorial.  The Special Events team directs and manages all development events, including fundraising and benefit-fulfillment events for the Kennedy Center, National Symphony Orchestra, and the Washington National Opera. Manage all facets of guest management processes and assist with donor communications for signature events. The Special Events Coordinator must have exceptional customer service abilities and feel confident under significant pressure. The Special Events Coordinator should exhibit exemplary leadership skills, as they will train Special Events Interns, Assistants, and Development Staff in various tasks. They must exercise discretion in order to prioritize assignments, as many projects are time sensitive, involving concurrent deadlines, and have a direct impact on the donor base of the Kennedy Center.  Key Responsibilities   Signature Events - Guest Management  Oversee all administrative aspects of the event management system (Elevated Events) including guest attendance tracking, invitation list management, and seating/ticket inventory. Collaborate with Box Office and Performance Seating leads to ensure accurate records and seamless ticketing for all signature events. Lead on-site registration and check-in for major events, ensuring smooth guest experiences and real-time problem solving under pressure. Serve as primary liaison with Government Relations, Programming, and PR to ensure guest information is tracked accurately and all departments are equipped with necessary pre-arrival communications. Train Special Events assistants/interns on guest management protocols, including registration, invitation mailings, and tax acknowledgements. Complete all post-event documentation of comp and paid guest activity for Finance closeout. Communications  Manage the Special Events inbox, providing prompt, polished responses to donors and VIP guests. Partner with Development Systems and IT to optimize processes for data collection and tracking in Tessitura CRM. Draft compelling event communications (invitations, website copy, emails, program notes) Create and manage event communication calendars, ensuring all deadlines are met and materials are distributed with precision. Send and manage event-related communications (solicitations, invitations, reminders, confirmations, and acknowledgements) through WordFly, ensuring accuracy, brand consistency, and timely delivery. Coordinate donor tax receipts and ensure compliance with finance standards. Maintain and refine all event templates, including letters, receipts, and confirmations. Benefit Event Management  Solely plan and execute small-scale benefit events (under 100 guests) from concept to completion. Develop design concepts, menus, and guest experiences that reflect creativity and current industry trends. Manage vendor relationships and oversee event logistics including load-in/out, deliveries, set-up, and execution. Ensure flawless guest experience with professional, polished, white-glove service standards. Budgeting & Finance  Track, reconcile, and process all event expenses and invoicing. Ensure budgets remain accurate, transparent, and within established guidelines. Teamwork & Institutional Engagement  Collaborate with colleagues across Development, Programming, Government Relations, and Communications to deliver unified, seamless events. Support and contribute to a culture of creativity, positivity, and professionalism. Be flexible and responsive to last-minute changes, demonstrating a solutions-oriented mindset at all times. Respond promptly and professionally to all leadership and staff needs. Other duties as assigned.   Key Qualifications      At least 2–3 years of hands-on experience in events, hospitality, or related fields, with demonstrated ability to deliver high-touch, white-glove service. Ability to work under serious, real-time pressure without sacrificing quality. Comfort with shifting timelines, last-minute changes, and evolving event plans. Strong organizational skills, detail-oriented execution, and follow-through. Exceptional communication skills—both written and verbal. Positive, professional, and unflappable attitude in high-stakes situations. Technical Skills: Proficiency in event systems (Tessitura, Elevated Events preferred), Mailing systems (WordFly, Mail Chimp) MS Office Suite, and familiarity with CRM or database management. Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area. Relocation assistance is not provided.    Candidate must be willing to work onsite.  

About The Kennedy Center “I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra.  At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law.  Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, reaching and connecting with artists, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts.  Why Join Us We offer a total rewards package to all full-time employees to include:  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 11 paid holidays per year  Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits with FSA and HSA options, and paid FMLA We like to have fun! Check out the  Kennedy Center National Dance Day 2024  staff video! Pay Details The Kennedy Center strives to design equitable compensation programs. The projected salary range for this position is $110,000 - $130,000, commensurate with experience, and includes a comprehensive benefits package. This is the targeted range of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. This range may be modified in the future. Base pay within the range is ultimately determined by a candidate’s skills, expertise, and experience as it relates to the position qualifications and responsibilities. Job Description The Director of Public Relations (Classical) is responsible for maintaining and enhancing the awareness, public image, and reputation of the Kennedy Center and its two resident artistic affiliates—the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO), helmed by Music Director Gianandrea Noseda and Executive Director Jean Davidson, and Washington National Opera (WNO), led by Artistic Director Francesca Zambello and General Director Timothy O’Leary—alongside distinctive music series including the Fortas Chamber Music Series (Artistic Director Jennifer Koh). The Director’s primary focus is to support the artistic vision of the above by helping to craft key messages and storylines, actively pursuing and delivering coverage and visibility through local, national, and international media placements, new media, self-generated content and storytelling, and by influencing a range of platforms including the Center’s social media and website. By deepening existing relationships with arts journalists and developing new connections to entice new writers, editors, and producers to cover the NSO and WNO, The Director will expand feature coverage nationally and globally. In an increasingly changing media landscape, the public relations team seeks to leverage new opportunities through multiple, non-traditional media channels and creatively spur interest among new, diverse audiences in symphonic, operatic, and chamber music repertoire and experiences. This role will also work in close coordination with the Center’s marketing department to execute strategies that support seasonal marketing and on-sale initiatives to build audiences and achieve earned revenue goals. The Director is a frontline representative of the Public Relations team and will help to manage the day-to-day strategy and media operations of a fast-paced PR office, directing artistic and program announcements, leveraging publicity opportunities, driving media cultivation, and determining positioning of institutional news and issues related to the full range of its classical music activities and related music education and community engagement projects. Reporting to the VP of Public Relations, this position will also work closely and proactively with them and other senior/executive leadership, providing strategic input and guidance as it relates to all variety of communications, including crisis communications. This position regularly collaborates with external artistic partners, vendors, and publicists/managers to coordinate publicity efforts. The Director will supervise a team of two direct reports: Deputy Director and Associate Director. Additionally, as part of the execution of strategic communications campaigns throughout the season for the NSO and WNO, this role will craft and lead internal communications to ensure broad awareness and alignment throughout the NSO, WNO, and the Center and among its key stakeholders.   Key Responsibilities Publicity & Media Relations: Design and implement comprehensive public relations strategies that support and leverage the unparalleled breadth, vibrancy and excellence of the classical music offerings at the Kennedy Center. Help to craft and deliver a message that consistently positions the Center and its affiliates (NSO and WNO) as enterprising arts leaders across America and internationally. Assign, write, review, and edit press releases and media communications that reflect the artistic vision and mission of the Center and its artistic affiliates. Primary areas of discipline and focus: National Symphony Orchestra (classical, Pops, education and outreach programs), Washington National Opera (WNO, Cafritz Young Artists, education and outreach programs), Fortas Chamber Music Series, and Renee Fleming VOICES. Media Affairs: Develop relationships with a key target list of industry press contacts and continue building an open line of communication to develop positive narratives from the media about the Kennedy Center and it’s programming. Proactive outreach daily to ensure there is a consistent drumbeat in the public about the works being done here. Draft and edit media pitch and other outreach necessary for a constant presence in the press. Internal Coordination: Work proactively and initiate/attend regular meetings with senior and artistic leadership, directors, and managers cross-institutionally to develop and execute strong messaging and manage flow and distribution of information. Use public relations expertise to contribute creative ideas that will generate buzz, reach a broad range of media (beyond arts and culture reporters), and cultivate new audiences for classical music. Management of staff: Provide leadership and guidance to deputy director and associate director in their work towards meeting job objectives and goals. Work with direct reports on long-range PR planning and short and long-term campaigns and direct efforts to achieve maximum publicity for Kennedy Center events, artists, and stories. Special Events: As a senior member of the Kennedy Center Public Relations Office, assist and support team for the Center’s marquee award events including the Kennedy Center Honors (December), the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor (Spring), and other Center-wide special events including major international festivals and other initiatives to generate a higher profile of the Kennedy Center locally, nationally, and internationally. Content Generation/Production: Work closely with social media team, sharing earned media as suggested content for organic social media posts consistent with strategic communications goals. Advise on the voice, messaging, and branding of the NSO and WNO’s social media accounts. Finance/Budget: Oversee and manage budget for PR-related expenditures (i.e. photography, media event costs) for NSO and WNO throughout the year. Work with Classical PR Coordinator to routinely track invoices and expenses and ensure timely payment for vendors.    Other duties as assigned. Key Qualifications Minimum of 8 years of strategic public relations management experience, and a least three years in a supervisory capacity. Demonstrated publicity results on a national level and proven success at managing complex issues in a fast-paced environment. Established and constructive relationships with key journalists and national media outlets highly valued for this position (arts beat and editorial leadership relationships, but also general features/mainstream reporters). Bachelor’s degree required; public relations or communications degree a plus. Candidates with appreciation and expansive knowledge of classical music and the performing arts are preferred but not required. Strong interpersonal skills to interact professionally, graciously, and maturely with media, artists, managers/publicists, outside consultants, vendors, trustees, and a variety of other internal and external constituents.  High-level strategic communication skills and ability to successfully execute high-profile PR campaigns that raise awareness, appreciation, and profile. 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 teams. 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. Additional Information Night and weekend work as required by performance schedules. PR staff at the Kennedy Center share the responsibilities of concert duty, amounting to 1-2 performances weekly on average for most positions. Travel of up to 5% may be required.