We are seeking a results-oriented, highly motivated professional with public relations and social media experience and a commitment to the highest levels of excellence.
JOB SUMMARY
The Public Relations & Social Media Manager’s primary function is to support the department’s efforts toward excellent publicity and social media interaction for the BSO. The Public Relations & Social Media Manager manages the daily public relations and social media operations of the BSO and is a key figure in the effectiveness and overall ability of the department to achieve its goal of generating widespread and positive publicity for the BSO as well as building social media followers and interactions. While based mainly at the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, the Manager does support PR and donor communication efforts at The Music Center at Strathmore and may be required to work at the Strathmore office from time to time.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Supports multiple, simultaneous PR campaigns covering all components of BSO events, including weekly concerts, runouts, education programs, OrchKids, Academy, Rusty Musicians Summer, Oregon Ridge, tours, etc.
- Supports the PR department in the development and maintenance of relationships with print , electronic and broadcast media to maximize positive coverage of the BSO.
- Helps maintain PR database, Vocus.
- Drafts and implements PR communications vehicles including news releases, monthly calendars, press kits, media advisories, fact sheets, fun facts and trivia, etc. Helps maintain press room on website, including maintaining musician biographies and photos.
- Supports the PR department in creating pitch ideas and plans that will result in maximum exposure for the organization.
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Develop and execute social media strategies for Facebook, Twitter and Instagram that collaborates with marketing, PR, education and artistic departments to help raise the profile of the BSO online and to help boost ticket sales.
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Create campaigns to help increase followers and engagement levels on all social media platforms.
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Monitors top influencers, competitors, media and industry trends for potential shareable content.
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Create timely and engaging content optimized for the social media platform used and intended audience. Create engaging and professional visuals to accompany posts.Tag key influencers and partners where applicable.
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Monitors customer interactions on social media and initiates conversations where applicable.
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Monitors and reports on social media analytics on a monthly basis for successes and new opportunities.
- Participates with other department staff in key areas where public relations and social media impacts organizational objectives and goals.
- Works closely with the Writer in Residence to maximize exposure on social media for stories posted to the BSO’s Story Feed.
- Works closely with marketing to ensure positive media exposure and social media interaction that contributes to revenue goals.
- Assists with planning and execution of PR events, providing on-site support as needed.
- Assists in the management of media inquiries and other requests, serving as PR liaison to media and community, and department liaison within the BSO.
- Participates in and provides input to all PR department meetings.
- Supports consistency of corporate message in all PR materials. Offers design and proofing assistance to other departments, particularly with regards to implementation of logo styles and uniformity of design.
- Assists with administrative duties in the PR department.
- Rotates concert night duties with other department staff.
- Ensures standardization of operating procedures within position and department.
- Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS AND CAPABILITIES
- Five years of public relations and social media experience in a professional setting; experience in the arts is preferred, but not required.
- Bachelor’s degree in public relations, marketing/communications, English, journalism or a related field; or equivalent work experience.
- Must have or be able to quickly acquire knowledge of departmental structure, policies, and procedures.
- Demonstrates superior organizational skills, attention to detail, the ability to meet deadlines.
- Proficiency with Microsoft programs, and knowledge of Photoshop preferred.
- Ability and sound knowledge in business correspondence and an ability to proofread for grammar, spelling and punctuation with a high degree of accuracy.
- Knowledge of communication technologies including social networking, blogs, YouTube, etc.
- Must demonstrate initiative and strong problem resolution and be able to participate successfully in a fast-paced, team-orientated environment.
- Schedule flexibility and willingness to work some nights and weekends for concert duty as needed.
ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND ON THE BSO
The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra is internationally recognized as having achieved a preeminent place among the world's most important orchestras. Acclaimed for its uncompromising pursuit of artistic excellence, the Baltimore Symphony has attracted a devoted national and international following while maintaining deep bonds throughout the Maryland community through innovative education and community outreach initiatives.
Organized in 1916, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra is the only major American orchestra originally established as a branch of the municipal government. Reorganized as a private institution in 1942, it maintains close relationships with the governments and communities of the city and surrounding counties, as well as with the State of Maryland.
The BSO has a staff of 60 employees, with most of these employees being based at the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore. The staff supports the Orchestra, also based at the Meyerhoff. The Orchestra is made up of 90 world-class musicians who bring a wealth of musical knowledge and professionalism to the symphony.
More information about the BSO can be found at our website: www.BSOmusic.org.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
- Competitive salary negotiable, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
- A benefits package that includes
- Health insurance, at low cost to the employee
- Dental, Life, and Long-Term Disability Insurance, paid entirely by the BSO
- Generous paid time off, including annual, personal, and sick leave
- Two 403(b) plan options
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Employee Assistance Program