The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts · 20 hours ago
Manager (Deputy Director) of Public Relations - Non-Classical
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is the nation's cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. They are seeking a Manager (Deputy Director) of Public Relations, Non-Classical who will manage strategic communications and public relations efforts, particularly for non-classical programming, and raise the national profile of the Center.
Education
Responsibilities
This position will develop and execute publicity plans by devising potential story ideas, crafting pitches, and shepherding stories to completion
They will develop and nurture journalist and digital media relationships (ex. streaming media outlets, podcasts, and other non-traditional media)
This person has excellent PR instincts and can think strategically to generate significant and meaningful visibility for the Non-Classical constituents and programs at the Kennedy Center
Fosters and maintains local, national, and international media contacts
Formulates and executes press plans, inclusive of non-traditional media, for programs across Ballet/Dance, Comedy, Theater, and Performances for Young Audiences at the Kennedy Center
Uses superb writing skills to create press releases and media advisories including announcements for full series, special performances, recurring/annual events, and ongoing initiatives
The person will feel comfortable working in a complex, highly matrixed environment
This position will be a key partner to the Kennedy Center’s Non-Classical constituents by communicating plans and delivering in a timely manner
They will work with managers cross-institutionally to develop and execute strong messaging and manage flow and distribution of information
Engages with external artists and publicists in promoting Kennedy Center non-classical performances
Works with colleagues across the center for the creation of self-generated storytelling that advances the impact and reach of the Kennedy Center and its work
This position will write, edit, and distribute Non-Classical press releases throughout the season and be responsible for drafting media pitches to further position the Center for positive news stories and earned media
They will work closely with social media team, sharing earned media as suggested content for organic social media posts consistent with strategic communications goals
Assists media onsite (including reviewers, photographers, videographers, and crews) during performances, following and enforcing the Center’s policies and coordinates with programming departments so all are aware of media presence
As an integral member of the Kennedy Center PR team, work related to other Kennedy Center events, initiatives, and special projects, such as Kennedy Center Honors, the Mark Twain Prize, the REACH, and other festivals, series, and performances will be assigned as needed
Oversees Kennedy Center Public Relations Coordinator and Interns
Qualification
Required
At least 4 - 6 years of public relations experience, including responsibility for high-level strategic communications and messaging
Long and short-term PR planning ranging from national to grassroots efforts
Strong media experience in both the arts and non-arts
A solution-oriented, creative, and independent spirit and collaborative nature
Outstanding writing and editing skills
Personal characteristics of poise, calm, and composure in stressful, crisis communications situations
Demonstrated supervisory skills and a capacity to build strong relationships
Ability to multi-task and respond quickly to requests from journalists/editors, photo desks, as well as internal departments and artistic/executive leadership
Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area. Relocation assistance is not provided
Candidate must be willing to work onsite
Preferred
An appreciation and understanding of theater and its inner workings is preferred but not required
Benefits
Staff offers for discount tickets
Retirement plan with organization matching (after 1 year of employment)
Qualifying employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
Commuter programs including pre-tax options for discounted parking and SmartBenefits (WMATA)
Annual Leave, Sick Leave, and Personal Days available immediately upon hire
13 paid holidays per year
Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits with FSA and HSA options, and paid FMLA
Company
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts produces and presents theatre and musicals, dance and ballet, and more.
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
unknownKey Investors
The Genesis Inspiration Foundation
2025-12-18Grant
Leadership Team
Recent News
2026-01-06
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