Job description
The Seattle Symphony is a vital part of the Pacific Northwest cultural scene and is recognized for its extraordinary performances, programming, recordings and community engagement. Recognized as one of the “most vital American orchestras” (NPR). The Symphony performs in Benaroya Hall in the heart of downtown Seattle from September through July, reaching over 500,000 people annually through live performances and radio broadcasts. The Public Relations Coordinator works closely with the Senior Manager of Public Relations to assist in achieving the long- & short-term public relations goals in support of the Seattle Symphony and Benaroya Hall.
Essential Job Functions:
- Monitor and maintain press coverage including pulling quotes, logging coverage, and creating and distributing benchmark reports on impressions and media coverage reach, working extensively with Cision PR software.
- Draft press releases, advisories, media alerts, press pitches, fact sheets, talking points and some social media content. Assist in crafting messaging and long-term storytelling, as well as help create press kits and assist with responses to public inquiry.
- Develop familiarity with current and past photography and assist in managing press photo files and selecting photos for press use. Assist in managing external media photo opportunities, including accompanying press and external photographers throughout Benaroya Hall.
- With the Senior Manager of Public Relations, interface with department stakeholders and members of the press to ensure effective media coverage.
- Compile and monitor lists of upcoming concerts and events to input into various community calendars and local guides.
- Assist with other special projects as needed.
Benefits:
- Excellent Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance (PPO, low deductible)
- Employer paid Long-Term Disability, AD&D and Life Insurance
- 403b retirement savings plan with employer matching at 1 year
- 10 days Vacation Time, 10 days Sick Time
- 2 personal days
- 11 holidays per year
- Your birthday off!
- Employee Assistance Program
The Seattle Symphony values diversity and inclusiveness in the workplace. Individuals who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives are encouraged to apply. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EOE) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the Seattle Symphony will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.
Requirements:Minimum Requirements
- Minimum of 1 to 3 years of work experience in public relations with a non-profit arts organization.
- Demonstrated superior written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong understanding of public relations and experience working with press, including a demonstrated history of press pitching and securing coverage.
- Ability to work and think independently, a motivated self-starter.
- Knowledge of, and devotion to, symphonic music and the classical music industry.
- Computer literate; knowledge of Word, Excel, and various online social media platforms.
- Bachelor’s degree in communications or public relations related fields, or related work experience.
- This position does require some nights and weekends, the ability to work evenings or weekends to support concerts and events is required.
- As a member of the PR team, utmost discretion is required.
Physical Requirements:
The physical requirements described here must be met by the 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. The functions of this position are performed primarily in an office environment
- Regular activities include frequent sitting, standing, walking, reaching and bending.
- This position may require occasional pulling, lifting and climbing stairs.
- Regular activities include frequent movement, including repetitive motions of the wrists, hands and fingers for typing at a standard keyboard and regular pinching, picking up and holding pencils and other desk tools.
- Ability to speak, hear and communicate clearly while handling staff inquiries, telephone calls and customer requests.
- Specific vision abilities require close visual acuity for viewing a computer screen and reading, preparing, entering and/or analyzing data.