Head of Media and Community Relations

Position

Reports to the Director of Advancement and is responsible for institutional media programs – both electronic and in print – and initiatives for public relations and public information. Manages the finances and operations of the office of media and community relations. Confers and partners regularly with the Gallery Director on media relation strategies and effectiveness.

Works closely and in tandem with the Head of Publications and Director of Marketing to develop and implement a communications policy to ensure artistic and intellectual integrity of all communications efforts, including advertising. Responsible for ensuring a consistent and clear public identity and message for the Gallery in all facets of media relations and communications. Serves on the Gallery’s Department Head management and policy-making team and has considerable public contact.

Essential Responsibilities

• In consultation with the Director and other key staff members, develops, implements, and reviews a comprehensive program that integrates all Gallery media and communications activities and directs them towards specific institutional goals.
• Work specifically and closely with Director of Advancement and Director of Marketing to promote giving opportunities and membership programs; maintain a high level of familiarity with the Development Department’s goals and objectives and provide support for and/or participate in the Department’s fundraising efforts.
• Serve as public relations resource for all Gallery departments in targeting audiences for editorial placement and opportunities.
• In consultation with the Director and key department staff, shapes public statements, including those concerning Gallery policy, positions on controversial news affecting the Gallery, exhibitions and artists represented at the Gallery, and other issues as relevant. Acts as official spokesperson in absence of and in lieu of the Director, depending upon the importance and severity of the situation.
• In partnership with Director of Marketing, coordinate audience research efforts; measure on a continual basis the effectiveness of the Gallery’s media/PR/communications programs; develop partnerships/relationships with tourist industry representatives; develop and implement creative collaborations and partnerships with peer institutions and organizations to fortify Buffalo Niagara Region’s Cultural Tourism effort.
• Selects, supervises, develops, and evaluates any department staff and/or museum interns. In consultation with the Director and/or Deputy Director, retains and supervises outside consultants.
• Develops and maintains departmental/office budget.
• Responsible for professional development of self and any staff.

Required Qualifications

Seeking an individual who is entrepreneurial, results-driven, energetic, dedicated, diplomatic, and able to maintain a sense of humor and grace under pressure. Must possess excellent interpersonal communication skills and stamina, the ability to work extended and flexible evening and weekend hours to cover exhibitions and programs, and the interest and passion to work in a complex collaborative environment. Superior verbal and written skills are critical to success.

B.A. Degree in public relations, journalism, communications, or related field; ten years in public relations with experience in senior management and supervisory responsibilities; knowledge of public relations theory; advertising experience a plus; superior written and oral communications skills; extensive telephone work skills; ability to interface with staff, media, and business community vital; proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint.

Preferred

Established media contacts with national and local editors and journalists in electronic and print media; background/knowledge of art and art history; knowledge of museum operations, the arts industry, and arts public relations; sound judgement; ability to work independently and as a team member on a wide variety of projects; skilled in organizational skills and multitasking; response to tight deadlines vital; ability to work in an effective, tactful, and professional manner with staff, artists, management, trustees, media, and the public.

This description does not imply that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. He or she will be required to follow any instructions and to perform other duties requested by a supervisor.

Albright-Knox Art Gallery Values

Please submit your résumé in confidence to:

HR Manager
Albright-Knox Art Gallery
1285 Elmwood Avenue
Buffalo, New York 14222

No telephone inquiries, please.

The Albright-Knox Art Gallery is an EOE.