The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts · 7 hours ago
Vice President, Communications
Philadelphia, PA
Full-time
Hybrid
Director/Executive
10+ years expThe Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts is seeking a Vice President of Communications to oversee stakeholder communications and brand voice. This role involves developing strategies for internal engagement, crisis response, and enhancing the organization's visibility both locally and globally.
Performing Arts
Responsibilities
Develop and implement an overall communications strategy for internal and external stakeholders that directly supports the strategic goals of the enterprise institution, identifying storytelling opportunities that move the organization and its entities forward, while simultaneously reaching new audiences and mitigating accessibility and outreach roadblocks
Elevate internal communications systems and storytelling that connect musicians, staff, Board, and volunteers to shared priorities, demonstrating transparency and building a culture of trust
Lead crisis communications strategies with a focus on clear, accurate, and rapid response needs
Create and lead a comprehensive narrative and messaging strategy that exponentially grows the organization’s support across the Philadelphia area and positions the organization as leader in performing arts globally, as a convener for the arts community regionally, and as a civic partner in Philadelphia
Design and implement comprehensive public relations strategies and measurement tools that support and leverage the unparalleled breadth and excellence of the art created by the organization
Spearhead a holistic communications content and publications (Playbill) strategy, ensuring seamless engagement that includes search engine optimization tactics in content across digital platforms in partnership with the digital marketing team
Lead the team responsible for communications for The Philadelphia Orchestra, as well as the team that manages communications for the other genres and programs across Ensemble Arts Philly
Collaborate with the education and development departments and institutional marketing to integrate strategic messaging across programming, learning initiatives, and fundraising activities
Serve as the primary media strategist and institutional spokesperson for key outlets—including leadership with regional, national, and international journalists—and ensure the organization’s story is proactively shaped and consistently represented
Establish and nurture relationships with key stakeholders in the arts industry to identify collaborative storytelling opportunities
Provide leadership and guidance to direct reports and key consultants in their work towards meeting clearly articulated job objectives and goals
Lead efforts to communicate and connect programmatic platforms and initiatives (exhibitions, partnerships, pop-up-shop, restaurant, etc.) externally across multiple platforms
Establish messaging priorities (short and long-term), consistent communications, and brand identity across all digital, interpretive, marketing, media relations, and publication platforms
In collaboration with the institutional marketing team, maintain and continue to evolve a brand values system, including positioning statement, narrative, and tone of voice to be woven throughout each brand touchpoint online, in person, and in community engagement
Integrate brand identity and voice into editorial processes to ensure consistent execution across all printed and digital materials
Participate and collaborate as a member of the organization’s senior leadership team, providing input and counsel for decisions affecting annual and long-term operating plans, including the strategic plans, program priorities, capital needs, and human and financial resources
Lead an integrated internal communications strategy that keeps staff, musicians, Board, and key volunteers informed, engaged, and aligned with organizational priorities, culture, and values
Oversee executive communications for the President and CEO and senior leadership, including newsletter, speeches, op/eds, talking points, and key message platforms for high-profile internal and external moments
Develop members of the executive team as visible civic and sector leaders by identifying and supporting speaking opportunities, award submissions, media engagements, written thought leadership, and other public-facing communications across the region and beyond
Qualification
Required
Advanced degree in Communications or Public Relations or equivalent experience from which that training can be acquired
Ten or more years' progressive experience in the field of communications, either in an agency or in a cultural setting
Demonstrated ability to develop and implement forward-thinking communication, branding, and engagement strategies that support the organization's mission, enhance visibility, and attract diverse audiences
Strong understanding of the nonprofit and performing arts landscape, with the ability to navigate institutional structures, collaborate across departments, and engage key stakeholders, including artists, trustees, funders, and the public
Proven track record of setting ambitious goals related to audience growth, public engagement, and brand positioning, with the ability to measure impact and adapt strategies to maximize success
Deep understanding of the intersection between arts, culture, philanthropy, and public engagement, with the ability to position the organization effectively within the contemporary art ecosystem
Ability to synthesize diverse perspectives—including artistic vision, community needs, and institutional priorities—into clear and compelling communications strategies
Exceptional storytelling, writing, and presentation skills, with the ability to inspire confidence, represent the organization externally, and communicate with clarity and authority across diverse audiences
Adept at identifying creative solutions to challenges in audience development, communications, media relations, and digital engagement, particularly within the constraints of a nonprofit budget
Experience managing departmental budgets, negotiating contracts with media and creative agencies, and ensuring that communication initiatives align with financial and operational goals
Strong leadership abilities in mentoring and developing teams, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, and ensuring that staff are empowered to execute the organization's vision effectively
Company
The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts
The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts is boldly leading the way in building a bright, inclusive future for the performing arts—as the center of cultural life in Philadelphia, and as a model for the nation.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Leslie Patterson-Tyler
Vice President of Program Communications and Partnerships
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