Social Media Director

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 $108,000 - $129,000, 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 Social Media Director leads the strategy, creation, and execution of the digital and social media presence to grow audiences for the Kennedy Center and its affiliates, National Symphony Orchestra and Washington National Opera, strengthen the organization’s brand, and engage the community in its performing arts programming. This role oversees all social media channels, content planning, digital storytelling, social campaigns and influencer strategy to drive revenue, attendance, membership and engagement for the Center’s numerous performances and events across diverse audiences.

As a key member of the marketing team, the Social Media Director collaborates closely with departments across the organization—including PR, Programming, Development, Special Events and Education—to ensure consistent, creative, and mission-driven messaging that supports the Center’s strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive social media and digital content strategy aligned with the Kennedy Center’s marketing and audience development goals and encompassing both paid and organic social.
• Lead the organization’s presence across platforms (e.g.  Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X/Twitter, Truth Social) and emerging channels as needed.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and benchmarks for growth, engagement, and conversion.
• Manage social media budgets, paid advertising campaigns, and content creation resources (in-house and agency).
• Stay informed on industry trends, platform updates, and best practices in digital engagement for performing arts and entertainment sectors.

Content & Creative

• Oversee creation of original multimedia content—including videos, reels, photography, stories, and written posts—that showcase productions, artists, behind-the-scenes moments, and community impact.
• Collaborate with graphic designers, photographers, videographers, and copywriters to ensure brand consistency and high production value.
• Guide tone and storytelling to reflect the Kennedy Center’s mission, values, and audience diversity.
• Maintain an annual content calendar that aligns with season programming, special events, and institutional priorities from the Office of the President.

Community Engagement & Audience Growth

• Foster meaningful digital engagement with patrons, fans, artists, and influencers.
• Build relationships with cultural organizations, press, and partners to amplify reach and reputation.
• Develop targeted campaigns to attract new audiences—including younger and more conservative leaning communities.
• Oversee community management, ensuring timely and thoughtful responses across all platforms.

Analytics & Reporting

• Track, analyze, and report social media performance using analytics tools (Meta Insights, Google Analytics, Sprout Social, etc.).
• Provide regular insights and recommendations to marketing and executive leadership.
• Evaluate the ROI of campaigns and adjust strategies to improve performance and conversion rates.

Other duties as assigned. 

Key Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Digital Media, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 8-12 years of experience in social media or digital marketing, ideally within the performing arts, entertainment, or cultural sector.
• Proven track record of building social media audiences and leading successful digital campaigns.
• Experience managing staff, creative teams, or external agencies.
• Deep understanding of social media platforms, content trends, and algorithms.
• Strong storytelling skills and visual eye for arts-driven content.
• Proficiency with social media management tools (e.g., Sprout Social, Hootsuite, Later, Buffer).
• Familiarity with video editing, live streaming, and basic graphic design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Excellent communication, leadership, and project management abilities.
• Passion for the performing arts and our commitment to bringing quality programming for the masses.
• Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area. Relocation assistance is not provided. 
• Candidate must be willing to work onsite.