Alachua County Board of County Commissioners
Gainesville, FL
Minimum Qualifications Master's Degree in counseling, psychology or related mental health field and one year of mental health counseling and crisis intervention experience, or any equivalent combination of related training and experience. Applicants within six months of meeting the minimum education/experience requirement may be considered for trainee status. A Post-Master's Education Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree is equivalent to the required education and one year of related work experience in suicide and crisis intervention. Licensure in mental health, marriage and family counseling or any related mental health field is required within two years of employment. A Valid Florida Driver License is required and a Motor Vehicle Record that meets the requirements of Alachua County policy #6-7; Motor Vehicle Records will be reviewed prior to employment. If, in the past 24-month period, the applicants Motor Vehicle Record has more than three (3) moving traffic infractions or three (3) or more at fault motor vehicle accidents (or combination of both and /or a conviction/pending charge for driving under the influence) or is in violation of any standard mandated by Federal or State Law or Regulation, the minimum qualifications are not met for the position. This is a grant funded position. There are no rights to permanent employment. Position Summary This is responsible professional work providing crisis intervention counseling, supervision and training of Crisis Center Care Team members and the development of professional relationships with various outside agencies for the County's Crisis Center. An employee assigned to this classification provides supervision and guidance to both volunteers (professional and paraprofessional) and graduate students, assists in case management, counsels clients and helps to maintain a continuous community suicide prevention and crisis intervention program. Work is performed under the direction of a higher-level supervisor and is reviewed through conferences, reports and observation of the results obtained. Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS This is an emergency essential classification. Upon declaration of a disaster and/or emergency, all employees in this classification are required to work. Exudes a positive customer service focus. Advocates building organizational culture through aligning decisions with core values including: integrity, honesty, respect, diversity, innovation, accountability and communication. Provides supervision and clinical training to graduate students toward their certification/ licensure. Meets weekly with staff and volunteers through individual and group conferences in analyzing case problems and in improving their diagnostic and clinical counseling skills. Assists in case management review of case records established for each contact within the crisis intervention program Provides clinical therapy and counseling to individuals, couples and families. May also refer clients to appropriate agencies or services in the community. Provides after-hours on-call supervision for all Crisis Center workers. Provides counseling services on crisis phone line. Develops and maintains effective liaison with assisting community mental health and other agencies. Serves as the CIT (Crisis Intervention Team) Coordinator for North Central Florida, providing training and crisis situation role playing for 911 operators, hostage negotiation teams and other law enforcement agencies. Assists with coordination and supervision of all services and projects for the Survivors of Suicide within Alachua County, including the Suicide Memory Garden at Cofrin Park. Informs community organizations of Crisis Center suicide prevention and crisis intervention techniques, procedures, and services available. Consults with staff concerning services to clients and volunteers and coordinates and assists implementation of program policies and procedures. Ensures proper coding for statistical information and monitoring of center activities. Provides consulting and clinical services to County staff and administrators in support of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Coordinates activities, groups, and internal projects geared toward personal and professional development of volunteers, graduate students, and staff. Provides crisis intervention services via mobile crisis outreach team. Drives a County and/or personal vehicle regularly to respond to crisis calls 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week; drives to offsite locations to conduct training and/or participate in outreach events. Performs the duties listed, as well as those assigned, with professionalism and a sense of urgency. NOTE: These examples are intended only as illustrations of the various kinds of work performed in positions allocated to this class. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Thorough knowledge of the laws, rules and regulations relating to the operation of community crisis intervention programs. Considerable knowledge of current techniques, principles and practices of crisis intervention and suicide prevention programs. Skill in the use of personal computers including word processing programs. Ability to work with and counsel suicidal/distraught clients. Ability to function in a team setting. Ability to supervise and appraise volunteers and students. Ability to coordinate and assist in the effective and efficient implementation of policies and procedures. Ability to react calmly and quickly in emergency situations and coordinate and supervise volunteers and students in emergency situations. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Ability to make public presentations before community organizations about the program. Ability to develop and maintain good working relationships with assisting agencies, other County departments and employees and the general public. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to reach and to be mobile. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required for this job include close vision, and distance vision. WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate An organization is only as good as the people it employs. To attract and retain the best team possible, the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners offers a competitive benefit program. We believe that if we expect our employees to support the County, we must first support the health and financial well-being of our employees and their families, now and as they plan for their future.BoCC-Contributed Benefits Medical/Health Insurance Employee Life Insurance Florida Retirement System Employee Assistance Program Optional Benefits Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Supplemental & Dependent Life Insurance Deferred Retirement Program Flexible Spending Accounts Roth IRA Tuition Assistance Program Computer Purchase Program NOTE: For detailed information regarding available benefits click here. You may also view Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding benefits. FLORIDA RETIREMENT SYSTEM (FRS) The Florida Retirement System is a retirement plan designed to provide an income to a vested employee and his/her family when the employee retires, becomes partially or totally disabled, or dies prior to retirement. A defined benefit or defined contribution option may be chosen by the employee. TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Permanent, full-time employees are eligible for educational assistance funds. Contact the Human Resources Office for program details. HOLIDAYS Holidays are as follows: New Years Day Martin Luther King Day Memorial Day Juneteenth Independence Day Labor Day Veterans' Day Thanksgiving Day Friday following Thanksgiving Christmas Eve (IAFF*) Christmas Day Additional Christmas Holiday (All non-IAFF employees) 2 Floating Holidays (All non- IAFF employees) *IAFF – International Association of FirefightersPay periods are every two weeks, Monday through Sunday. Payday is Friday. International Association of Firefighters follow the General Contract 7k regarding holidays. Vacation Leave – Generous vacation accrual rates with payout of unused accrued leave, with some restrictions. For more detailed information regarding vacation leave refer to Employee Policy Manual, Section 7-2 . Sick leave is earned at a rate of 4 hours per pay period by all permanent, full-time employees*. At the end of each fiscal year, eligible employees can convert up to 10 days of accrued sick leave to vacation leave on a 2:1 basis. For more detailed information regarding sick leave refer to Employee Policy Manual, Section 7-3 *Accruals slightly different for IAFF employee.
Full-time
Minimum Qualifications Master's Degree in counseling, psychology or related mental health field and one year of mental health counseling and crisis intervention experience, or any equivalent combination of related training and experience. Applicants within six months of meeting the minimum education/experience requirement may be considered for trainee status. A Post-Master's Education Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree is equivalent to the required education and one year of related work experience in suicide and crisis intervention. Licensure in mental health, marriage and family counseling or any related mental health field is required within two years of employment. A Valid Florida Driver License is required and a Motor Vehicle Record that meets the requirements of Alachua County policy #6-7; Motor Vehicle Records will be reviewed prior to employment. If, in the past 24-month period, the applicants Motor Vehicle Record has more than three (3) moving traffic infractions or three (3) or more at fault motor vehicle accidents (or combination of both and /or a conviction/pending charge for driving under the influence) or is in violation of any standard mandated by Federal or State Law or Regulation, the minimum qualifications are not met for the position. This is a grant funded position. There are no rights to permanent employment. Position Summary This is responsible professional work providing crisis intervention counseling, supervision and training of Crisis Center Care Team members and the development of professional relationships with various outside agencies for the County's Crisis Center. An employee assigned to this classification provides supervision and guidance to both volunteers (professional and paraprofessional) and graduate students, assists in case management, counsels clients and helps to maintain a continuous community suicide prevention and crisis intervention program. Work is performed under the direction of a higher-level supervisor and is reviewed through conferences, reports and observation of the results obtained. Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS This is an emergency essential classification. Upon declaration of a disaster and/or emergency, all employees in this classification are required to work. Exudes a positive customer service focus. Advocates building organizational culture through aligning decisions with core values including: integrity, honesty, respect, diversity, innovation, accountability and communication. Provides supervision and clinical training to graduate students toward their certification/ licensure. Meets weekly with staff and volunteers through individual and group conferences in analyzing case problems and in improving their diagnostic and clinical counseling skills. Assists in case management review of case records established for each contact within the crisis intervention program Provides clinical therapy and counseling to individuals, couples and families. May also refer clients to appropriate agencies or services in the community. Provides after-hours on-call supervision for all Crisis Center workers. Provides counseling services on crisis phone line. Develops and maintains effective liaison with assisting community mental health and other agencies. Serves as the CIT (Crisis Intervention Team) Coordinator for North Central Florida, providing training and crisis situation role playing for 911 operators, hostage negotiation teams and other law enforcement agencies. Assists with coordination and supervision of all services and projects for the Survivors of Suicide within Alachua County, including the Suicide Memory Garden at Cofrin Park. Informs community organizations of Crisis Center suicide prevention and crisis intervention techniques, procedures, and services available. Consults with staff concerning services to clients and volunteers and coordinates and assists implementation of program policies and procedures. Ensures proper coding for statistical information and monitoring of center activities. Provides consulting and clinical services to County staff and administrators in support of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Coordinates activities, groups, and internal projects geared toward personal and professional development of volunteers, graduate students, and staff. Provides crisis intervention services via mobile crisis outreach team. Drives a County and/or personal vehicle regularly to respond to crisis calls 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week; drives to offsite locations to conduct training and/or participate in outreach events. Performs the duties listed, as well as those assigned, with professionalism and a sense of urgency. NOTE: These examples are intended only as illustrations of the various kinds of work performed in positions allocated to this class. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Thorough knowledge of the laws, rules and regulations relating to the operation of community crisis intervention programs. Considerable knowledge of current techniques, principles and practices of crisis intervention and suicide prevention programs. Skill in the use of personal computers including word processing programs. Ability to work with and counsel suicidal/distraught clients. Ability to function in a team setting. Ability to supervise and appraise volunteers and students. Ability to coordinate and assist in the effective and efficient implementation of policies and procedures. Ability to react calmly and quickly in emergency situations and coordinate and supervise volunteers and students in emergency situations. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Ability to make public presentations before community organizations about the program. Ability to develop and maintain good working relationships with assisting agencies, other County departments and employees and the general public. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to reach and to be mobile. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required for this job include close vision, and distance vision. WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate An organization is only as good as the people it employs. To attract and retain the best team possible, the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners offers a competitive benefit program. We believe that if we expect our employees to support the County, we must first support the health and financial well-being of our employees and their families, now and as they plan for their future.BoCC-Contributed Benefits Medical/Health Insurance Employee Life Insurance Florida Retirement System Employee Assistance Program Optional Benefits Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Supplemental & Dependent Life Insurance Deferred Retirement Program Flexible Spending Accounts Roth IRA Tuition Assistance Program Computer Purchase Program NOTE: For detailed information regarding available benefits click here. You may also view Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding benefits. FLORIDA RETIREMENT SYSTEM (FRS) The Florida Retirement System is a retirement plan designed to provide an income to a vested employee and his/her family when the employee retires, becomes partially or totally disabled, or dies prior to retirement. A defined benefit or defined contribution option may be chosen by the employee. TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Permanent, full-time employees are eligible for educational assistance funds. Contact the Human Resources Office for program details. HOLIDAYS Holidays are as follows: New Years Day Martin Luther King Day Memorial Day Juneteenth Independence Day Labor Day Veterans' Day Thanksgiving Day Friday following Thanksgiving Christmas Eve (IAFF*) Christmas Day Additional Christmas Holiday (All non-IAFF employees) 2 Floating Holidays (All non- IAFF employees) *IAFF – International Association of FirefightersPay periods are every two weeks, Monday through Sunday. Payday is Friday. International Association of Firefighters follow the General Contract 7k regarding holidays. Vacation Leave – Generous vacation accrual rates with payout of unused accrued leave, with some restrictions. For more detailed information regarding vacation leave refer to Employee Policy Manual, Section 7-2 . Sick leave is earned at a rate of 4 hours per pay period by all permanent, full-time employees*. At the end of each fiscal year, eligible employees can convert up to 10 days of accrued sick leave to vacation leave on a 2:1 basis. For more detailed information regarding sick leave refer to Employee Policy Manual, Section 7-3 *Accruals slightly different for IAFF employee.
The John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts
Washington DC
Please submit a cover letter for consideration. 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 comprehensive range of benefits to all full-time employees including: 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 Flexible work arrangements We like to have fun! Check out the Kennedy Center National Dance Day 2024 staff video! 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) and Renée Fleming VOICES. 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, he/she/they 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 her 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: a senior press representative and a PR coordinator. 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. Digital Programs This position also has broader oversight for year-round production of digital program content and/or, where applicable, custom printed programs, for all classical programs at the Kennedy Center as well as for off-site residencies and appearances, including texts and translations of vocal works. The Director will supervise the work and production schedule of the senior press representative and coordinator on the Classical PR team, together striving to consistently produce and deliver a high-quality, accurate custom publication (digital or print) for Kennedy Center audiences. The Director will be responsible for editing program content on a weekly basis and work closely with NSO, WNO, Fortas, and VOICES programmers and artistic leadership as necessary to meet the specific needs of their wide range of programs and audiences. The Director will play a critical role in the Center’s continued efforts to evolve and innovate the new digital program model.* *A leader in the industry, the Kennedy Center first and formally introduced digital programs for a majority of its programs and events in September 2021 as a way to reduce the institution’s carbon footprint and preserve the environment. The shift to digital program content allows the Center to save 250 tons of paper annually and provide greater accessibility to all audiences. Key Responsibilities Publicity & Media Relations : Design and implement comprehensive communications 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. Management of staff : Provide leadership and guidance to senior press rep and coordinator 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. Content Generation/Production : Work closely with social media team to develop and produce organic social media content consistent with strategic communications goals. Guide the voice, messaging, and branding of the NSO and WNO’s social media activities, and ensure its compatibility and inclusion in the news cycle. Commission work to enhance the profile of the Center through brand journalism and other self-generated content. Identify and organize strategic opportunities with influencers around institutionally important events. Digital Program Content : Review and approve draft digital and printed program content for all Kennedy Center/NSO/WNO/other classical programming and events throughout the year. 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. 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. 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. 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. Additional Information Travel of up to 5% may be required.
Full Time Regular
Please submit a cover letter for consideration. 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 comprehensive range of benefits to all full-time employees including: 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 Flexible work arrangements We like to have fun! Check out the Kennedy Center National Dance Day 2024 staff video! 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) and Renée Fleming VOICES. 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, he/she/they 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 her 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: a senior press representative and a PR coordinator. 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. Digital Programs This position also has broader oversight for year-round production of digital program content and/or, where applicable, custom printed programs, for all classical programs at the Kennedy Center as well as for off-site residencies and appearances, including texts and translations of vocal works. The Director will supervise the work and production schedule of the senior press representative and coordinator on the Classical PR team, together striving to consistently produce and deliver a high-quality, accurate custom publication (digital or print) for Kennedy Center audiences. The Director will be responsible for editing program content on a weekly basis and work closely with NSO, WNO, Fortas, and VOICES programmers and artistic leadership as necessary to meet the specific needs of their wide range of programs and audiences. The Director will play a critical role in the Center’s continued efforts to evolve and innovate the new digital program model.* *A leader in the industry, the Kennedy Center first and formally introduced digital programs for a majority of its programs and events in September 2021 as a way to reduce the institution’s carbon footprint and preserve the environment. The shift to digital program content allows the Center to save 250 tons of paper annually and provide greater accessibility to all audiences. Key Responsibilities Publicity & Media Relations : Design and implement comprehensive communications 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. Management of staff : Provide leadership and guidance to senior press rep and coordinator 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. Content Generation/Production : Work closely with social media team to develop and produce organic social media content consistent with strategic communications goals. Guide the voice, messaging, and branding of the NSO and WNO’s social media activities, and ensure its compatibility and inclusion in the news cycle. Commission work to enhance the profile of the Center through brand journalism and other self-generated content. Identify and organize strategic opportunities with influencers around institutionally important events. Digital Program Content : Review and approve draft digital and printed program content for all Kennedy Center/NSO/WNO/other classical programming and events throughout the year. 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. 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. 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. 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. Additional Information Travel of up to 5% may be required.
