Full-time Public Relations Manager – Houston Ballet

Come work with us at Houston Ballet!  Picture yourself at an amazing organization committed to inspiring a lasting love and appreciation for dance through artistic excellence, exhilarating performances, innovative choreography, and superb educational programs. At Houston Ballet, you’ll be surrounded by creative teams who challenge you, support you, inspire you, and celebrate artistic achievement. 

Visit: www.houstonballet.org for more information.

* * * For full consideration, please be sure to combine your resume and cover letter into one document to upload when you apply. 

Summary:

This position maximizes Houston Ballet’s external presence in the media and assists the Director of Marketing & PR in all projects about the Marketing and PR department.  This is an on-site position located in Houston, Texas.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Include the following. Other duties may be assigned:

• Develop and implement an annual PR plan that supports Houston Ballets strategic plan, aligns with institutional priorities, and promotes performances and programs
• Craft pitches, book interviews, and coordinate all media coverage including print, TV, and radio
• Maintain high visibility for Houston Ballet by identifying and securing local, regional, national, and international press opportunities and coverage
• Serve as primary liaison with earned media and press on a local, regional, national, and international level
• Effectively build and cultivate relationships with the media and develop story ideas for coverage
• Accompany all interviewees at/to scheduled appointments
• Prepare Houston Ballet spokespeople for interviews by organizing media pieces of training and drafting briefing notes
• Coordinate media press tickets, assemble press kits and maintain press list database.
• Manage press table on opening night performances and other performances as assigned
• Write and distribute press releases, media advisories, and PSAs
• Manage tracking, monitoring software, reporting, and archiving of press coverage
• Share press coverage with key staff members and stakeholders regularly
• Manage Houston Ballet blog
• Works with colleagues to develop high-quality photography and videography assets
• Execute all job functions while maintaining brand integrity and high-quality work with a patron-centered focus, with a positive, teamwork-oriented attitude
• Assist the Marketing & PR department with all other projects and tasks as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• 3+ years of Public Relations experience
• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations or related field required
• Fluency in writing (please include 3 writing samples)
• Prior media relations experience with a proven track record of securing media coverage
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Experience working efficiently in a fast-paced environment, while managing multiple projects simultaneously
• Exceptional writing and editing skills, with a command of grammar and AP style
• A passion for storytelling and sharing the world of dance with the public

Preferred Qualifications:

• Non-profit or performing arts experience

Benefits:

Houston Ballet presents an enticing benefits package for eligible full-time employees, including:

• Healthcare Benefits:  We've got your back (and your teeth and your eyes)!  Embrace our comprehensive coverage for medical, dental, and vision care.  Choose from plans with low-cost or zero monthly premiums, complemented by provisions for paid life and AD&D insurance, and versatile spending accounts.
• Retirement Plan: Secure your future through our 403(b) plan, bolstered by a substantial 5% annual contribution from Houston Ballet, empowering you to save and thrive.
• Paid Time Off:  Embrace a healthy work-life balance with 3 weeks of paid vacation, 10 paid sick days, and 10 paid holidays.  Paid parental leave is also available to support your personal milestones.
• Professional Development: Fuel your career ambition with access to online training and professional growth resources specific to arts management, empowering you to advance your career on your terms.
• Discounts and Perks: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Houston performing arts scene with discounted and complimentary tickets to captivating ballet performances and other Houston theater district venues. Enjoy exclusive partnerships with local businesses and eateries for unforgettable experiences.
• Wellness Programs: Prioritize your well-being with access to our on-site gym and counseling services through our employee assistance plan, providing comprehensive support for your physical and mental wellness.
• Flexible Scheduling:  Acknowledging the evolving nature of work preferences, certain positions offer flexible work hours and remote work options.

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access Statement:

Houston Ballet is dedicated to creating meaningful change by cultivating a space that honors what is unique in all of us. Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA) are instrumental in the fulfillment of our mission and values. We recognize our responsibility to be an inclusive and open organization for students, artists, staff, trustees, and volunteers of all backgrounds.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.  We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Join us, together we are Houston Ballet.

Core Values:

Houston Ballets shared values are essential to our success as a world-class ballet company and academy. These values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape our culture.

• EXCELLENCE: We are passionate about results. Our programs are recognized and awarded for excellence. We are committed to delivering quality programs at the highest standard. Work in all departments matches the caliber of the programming on stage.
• ENGAGED: We are proud to be a part of a company that produces art and trains artists. We attend performances and are tremendous advocates for the education and community engagement programs we offer. We are all in and well-versed in the mission of Houston Ballet.
• DRIVEN: We are driven to take goals and run with them. We are excited to deliver results beyond expectations. We are accountable for our actions and work. We reinvent Standard Operations Procedures, leaving our jobs better than we found them. Much of our work product becomes the standard for individuals who will fill our roles in the years to come.
• COLLABORATIVE: We unite around Houston Ballets mission and support each other in reaching goals. We share information widely and generously and treat our team members, customers, and patrons with respect and sensitivity. We embrace inclusion, diversity, equity, and access. We recognize our responsibility to be an open, welcoming, and anti-racist organization where students, artists, staff, trustees, and volunteers of all backgrounds collaboratively learn, work and serve. We nurture the growth and understanding of how each of us fits into the larger picture and we celebrate organizational achievements.
• PATRON-CENTERED: Our patrons (subscribers/supporters/donors/stakeholders) are at the center of all we do and are at the top of our minds in our decisions and actions. Our patrons are delighted by the excellent customer service they receive at every interaction at Houston Ballet.