Public Relations Director (Classical)

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) and

Washington National Opera

(WNO)—alongside distinctive music series including the Fortas Chamber Music Series and Renée Fleming VOICES. The Director’s primary focus is to support the artistic vision by crafting key messages and storylines, pursuing and delivering coverage through various media placements, and influencing platforms including the Center’s social media and website.By deepening relationships with arts journalists and developing new connections, the Director will expand feature coverage nationally and globally. The public relations team seeks to leverage opportunities through non-traditional media channels and creatively spur interest among diverse audiences in symphonic, operatic, and chamber music repertoire and experiences. This role will also coordinate with the marketing department to execute strategies supporting seasonal marketing and earned revenue goals.The Director is a frontline representative of the Public Relations team and will manage the day-to-day strategy and media operations of a fast-paced PR office, directing artistic and program announcements, leveraging publicity opportunities, and determining positioning of institutional news related to classical music activities and community engagement projects. Reporting to the VP of Public Relations, this position will work closely with senior leadership, providing strategic input and guidance on various communications, including crisis communications.The Director will supervise a team of two direct reports: a senior press representative and a PR coordinator. Additionally, this role will craft and lead internal communications to ensure broad awareness and alignment throughout the NSO, WNO, and the Center.Digital ProgramsThis position has oversight for year-round production of digital program content and custom printed programs for all classical programs at the Kennedy Center, including texts and translations of vocal works. The Director will supervise the work and production schedule of the senior press representative and coordinator, striving to produce and deliver high-quality, accurate publications for Kennedy Center audiences. The Director will be responsible for editing program content weekly and work closely with NSO, WNO, Fortas, and VOICES programmers and artistic leadership to meet the needs of their programs and audiences.*A leader in the industry, the Kennedy Center first introduced digital programs for a majority of its events in September 2021 to reduce the institution’s carbon footprint. This shift allows the Center to save 250 tons of paper annually and provides greater accessibility to all audiences.Minimum of 8 years of strategic public relations management experience, with at 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 relationships with key journalists and national media outlets.Bachelor’s degree required; public relations or communications degree a plus.Appreciation and knowledge of classical music and the performing arts preferred.Strong interpersonal skills to interact professionally with media, artists, managers, and various constituents.High-level strategic communication skills and ability to execute high-profile PR campaigns.Outstanding writing and editing skills.Personal characteristics of poise and composure in stressful situations.Demonstrated supervisory skills and capacity to build strong teams.Ability to multi-task and respond quickly to requests from journalists and internal departments.Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area.

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