writer New York, NY
Job description
About Our Organization
Founded in 1968, The Studio Museum in Harlem is a cultural leader that champions and preserves the prolific legacy of artists of African descent while simultaneously promoting critical thinking about art, culture, and community. Born out of an urgent need amid the political, social, and cultural ferment of the late 1960s, the Studio Museum was founded to create a new paradigm in which institutionally ignored artists of color would be seen, discussed, rewarded, and made known to the public. Today, the Studio Museum continues to serve as the nexus for Black artists locally, nationally, and internationally, and for work inspired and influenced by Black culture.
Job Summary
As the Studio Museum prepares to open its new purpose-built museum in the center of Harlem, the Museum seeks a dynamic Press Officer / Writer to support the museum’s communications campaign and editorial initiatives while supporting the museum Director and Chief Curator with ongoing requests for writing and public speaking engagements. The Press Officer and Writer will play a critical role in building and continuing to establish the Museum’s reputation as the foremost authority on contemporary Black art.
This position reports to the Director of Marketing and Communications and works closely with the Director and Chief Curator and Chief of Staff.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Help shape development of museum voice and messaging by writing, editing, and executing compelling, institutionally guided copy for PR and Museum Director initiatives
- Work closely with the Director of Marketing and Communications and Museum’s external PR firm to develop an earned media strategy in support of the Museum’s brand awareness, marketing, and audience development goals.
- Work closely with Museum’s external PR firm to ideate and execute on Museum’s reopening communications plan.
- In partnership with key stakeholders, help prepare Director and Chief Curator with remarks and talking points in advance of press conversations, interviews, and presentations.
- Draft, edit, and seek necessary approvals for the Director and Chief Curator’s message in the annual report.
- Be a creative storyteller with a keen understanding of audience, probing for details that will make messages relevant and relatable.
- Ensure consistency in all media related communications creating alignment in the Museum’s brand, voice and message.
- Contribute to editorial, and marketing initiatives
- Build and maintain successful relationships with art media and other outlets.
- Monitor press inbox and appropriately respond to press inquiries.
- Respond to competing and changing priorities in real time as needs arise.
- Contribute to Studio Magazine, the award-winning bi-annual museum publication.
Skills and Qualifications
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and social skills.
- Experience with crisis management
- Proven multi-tasking skills and ability to work independently, proactively, collaboratively, and effectively under pressure with a wide variety of Museum staff and outside partners.
- A track record of delivering high quality, timely remarks and written materials for senior leaders.
- Creative thinker and problem solver who can clearly articulate ideas, frame challenges, highlight opportunities, and offer solutions.
- Interest and enthusiasm for the work of the Studio Museum and knowledge of art and non-profit cultural world preferred.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree and at least 4 years relevant professional experience.
Core Values
- Commitment (Core Value) – commitment to the mission and values of Studio Museum in Harlem.
- Collaboration (Core Value) – works well with others at all levels of the organization as well as with key external stakeholders
- Initiative (Core Value) - takes self-directed, appropriate action to influence outcomes and / or drive progress and positive change.
Physical Demands
- This is a desk job with no specific physical demands.
Work Environment
- This position is an non-exempt position.
Compensation
$60,000 - $75,000 annually
Salary is commensurate with experience within the guidelines of a small not-for-profit. A competitive benefits package is provided, including medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance, a retirement account, and substantial vacation time.
Application Instructions:
Please upload your resume, cover letter and a writing sample to your application. No phone calls or faxes, please.
Please note that while careful consideration will be given to each submission, the Museum will only be able to contact those applicants whose knowledge, skills, and work experience best fit the requirements of the position.
The Studio Museum in Harlem is an equal opportunity employer and considers all candidates for employment regardless of race, color, sex, age, gender identification, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or political affiliation. We celebrate our inclusive work environment and encourage folks of all backgrounds and perspectives to apply. At the Studio Museum, we are committed to having an inclusive and transparent environment where every voice is heard and acknowledged. We embrace our differences, and know that our diverse team is a strength that drives our success.
Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role.
The Studio Museum is requiring proof of Covid-19 vaccination for employment. In order to be eligible, participants must show proof of vaccination and a form of personal ID.
