COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

JOB OVERVIEW:

Under the supervision of the Director of Communications, the Communications Manager plays a vital role in advancing strategies that build Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO) audiences, bringing energy and imagination to the development of mission-driven content that will engage our communities. This manager communicates through traditional and digital channels with varied audiences in all phases of their journey with USUO—prospective audiences, new audiences, and longtime patrons—adjusting the style and content of messages to properly resonate with each audience segment. The manager will help oversee internal and external communications for USUO with a specific eye toward creative and data-driven content and publications, as well as developing press and media relationships. Within the department, the Communications Manager ensures Patron Services staff colleagues are equipped with timely, accurate, and comprehensive information, empowering them to serve audiences with confidence and effectiveness.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Develop messaging and serve as a copywriter for marketing and institutional content, ensuring audience-centric language and consistency with mission and brand identity.
Collaborate with the Director of Communications regarding effective communication strategies to strengthen audience loyalty and build brand awareness.
Collaborate cross-departmentally to stay informed on events and news from across the organization to share internally and externally; Lead within the department to ensure Patron Services colleagues are equipped with knowledge of communications plans and key messaging to support patron interactions.
Lead and grow USUO’s social media presence by developing plans for and creating highly imaginative, multi-media organic and paid content that inspires engagement, maximizes visibility, and drives revenue. Stay up-to-date on social media trends and emerging channels.
Track and report on social media data and insights; adapt and modify campaigns accordingly.
Support in overseeing production of playbills; collaborate with the Director of Communications on content plans and creation; serve as proofreader, editor, and fact-checker.
Create and deploy press releases; support in building press relationships and manage interview opportunities, serving as a spokesperson as needed.
Create photography plan and manage video projects.
Proofread and edit written materials. Ensure USUO messaging is consistent and engaging.
Provide input on visual brand identity.
Support the Marketing Manager’s oversight and delegation of communications and PR tasks to the Marketing & Communications Coordinator.
Attend Utah Symphony, Utah Opera, and Deer Valley® Music Festival performances in rotation with others in the department and act as an official marketing/PR representative.
Perform other duties as assigned and required.

DESIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, music, or related field required.
2+ years of experience in a similar role.
Strong knowledge of communications practices and techniques.
Proven experience in creating audience-sensitive content.
Expertise in social media platforms and reporting tools.
Experience interacting with and providing support for customers.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent and versatile copywriting skills, creative approach to written communications and content, and a high-level of attention to detail in proofreading.
Commitment to ensuring the highest standard of quality in USUO materials; confidence in suggesting revisions and improvements to USUO materials and current practices.
Excellent organizational skills.
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
Strong leadership skills and ability to work independently.
Positive and personable attitude and collaborative spirit.
Ability to adapt to the needs of the organization and employees.
Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate when appropriate.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Moves equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.

SALARY:

Begins at $55,000, plus excellent benefits.

TO APPLY:

Please apply online @ www.usuo.org/employment and include both a résumé and cover letter with your application. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.