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 Gary Ginstling, 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 (curated by Joseph Kalichstein) and Renée Fleming VOICES, and working with the external cohort of partners responsible for Sound Health.
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.
Duties and Responsibilities
50% 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, Renee Fleming VOICES, and Sound Health.
20% 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. Work closely with social media team to 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.
10% 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.
10% 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.
5% 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.
5% 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.
