Publicist - Steppenwolf Theatre

An integral role on the Marketing and Communications team, the Publicist is responsible for managing the development and execution of Steppenwolf’s publicity and communication initiatives.

Through strategic communications, media relations and content curation, this role raises awareness of Steppenwolf as the nation's premier ensemble theatre, garnering press and social media coverage on a local, national, and international scale for the company's mission and work. Managing all external communications, this role generates both earned and contributed revenue, patron loyalty and civic pride through impactful placements. The position collaborates across all facets of the organization, board and ensemble to shape messaging under a unified brand, supported by streamlined internal communications.

The Publicist reports to the Director of Marketing and Communications and works closely with the Executive Director. This role manages the PR and Communications Associate, Public Relations firm and collaborates with the Deputy Marketing Director and Creative Director on institutional and programmatic campaigns.

Areas of Responsibility:

Develop and implement publicity strategies and campaigns for Steppenwolf’s theatrical offerings (Mainstage Series, Steppenwolf Young Adults, LookOut Series, Visiting Artists), fundraising campaigns, company events and general brand awareness

Create and distribute press releases; establish and manage style guidelines for language especially in press releases, print collateral and social media campaigns:

Ensure that all materials present a clear, unified and positive image for the organization and Steppenwolf brand

Analyze all media coverage of the organization and disseminate media reports to leadership and board members

Pitch Steppenwolf stories to national and international press when appropriate; craft feature topics around productions, highlight institutional achievements, note Steppenwolf’s placement at the forefront of the theatre world

Organize promotional events such as press tours, press conferences, artists’ interviews and more with various media outlets and partners

Speak on behalf of Steppenwolf in interviews and with the press:

Act as primary contact for all press inquiries and archive requests

Serve as liaison with press and marketing staff on Steppenwolf-affiliated productions outside of Chicago

Cultivate relationships with press and community partners

Arrange photography and press coverage for special events:

Act as point person for b-roll and scene capture for media usage

Serve as steward of production and organizational media archives:

Act as primary contact for all archival requests

Develop and manage budgets and execution timelines

Provide support for Communications and Content Manager in social media strategy and content for Steppenwolf's digital platforms (including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube)

Collaborate with Creative Director on visual asset development (season artwork, promotional videos…):

Curate and provide support for creative content creation, messaging and imagery; approve copy before it’s publicly shared

Cultivate relationships with press and community partners

Supervise PR and Communications Associate in support of public relations efforts, including: drafting press copy, pitching media, providing staffing support, photo captions and press kit creation, media database upkeep, generating media reports, among other administrative needs

Responsible for being a skillful and effective leader in crisis communications situations, assessing risk/ rewards, connecting with key stakeholders, crafting institutional statements, managing press requests

Stay informed about industry’s best practices regarding public relations and communications

Other duties as assigned

Successful candidates will have:

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Portfolio of successful campaigns with multiple placements

Creative thinking with an affinity for innovation and problem solving

Knowledge and experience in the world of theatre

Familiarity with the full spectrum of operations of a major regional theatre

Broadway experience is a plus

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and project management software (Asana, Basecamp…)

Desired Qualifications:

5+ years of experience in the Public Relations field, preferably with arts focus

Proven track record of placements in prominent print and digital publications

Bachelor’s degree of equivalent experience in Public Relations

About Steppenwolf:

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is the nation’s premier ensemble theatre. Steppenwolf produces hundreds of performances and events annually in its three spaces: the 515-seat Downstairs Theater, the 400-seat Ensemble Theater and the 80-seat 1700 Theater. Artistic programming includes a six-play season; a two-play Steppenwolf for Young Adults season; Visiting Artists engagements; and LookOut, a multi-genre performances series. Education initiatives include the nationally recognized work of Steppenwolf for Young Adults, which engages 15,000 participants annually from Chicago’s diverse communities; the esteemed School at Steppenwolf; and Professional Leadership Programs. While firmly grounded in the Chicago community, nearly 40 original Steppenwolf productions have enjoyed success both nationally and internationally, including Broadway, Off-Broadway, London, Sydney, Galway and Dublin. Audrey Francis and Glenn Davis are the Artistic Directors and E. Brooke Flanagan is the Executive Director.

For additional information, visit steppenwolf.org, facebook.com/steppenwolftheatre, twitter.com/steppenwolfthtr and instagram.com/steppenwolfthtr.

Steppenwolf Mission:

Steppenwolf Theatre Company strives to create thrilling, courageous and provocative art in a thoughtful and inclusive environment. We succeed when we disrupt your routine with experiences that spark curiosity, empathy and joy. We invite you to join our community as we navigate our complex world together.

Steppenwolf Core Values:

Equity + Inclusion

Integrity + Curiosity

Courage + Collaboration

Accountability + Leadership

Steppenwolf gives preference to candidates who have demonstrable experience advocating for inclusion, diversity, equity and access (IDEA).

Compensation:

Salary range: $68,000 to $74,750 with excellent benefit package for full time employees, including medical, dental, vision insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, vacation pay, paid sick time, personal days, Ventra transit benefit program, employee assistance program and 401(k) matching retirement program.

To apply click the link: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=35741&clientkey=FFA63F8D7510DAA0AAC6BCEC71DBE021

NO PHONE CALLS OR EMAILS PLEASE

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Steppenwolf complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

We strongly encourage applications from people of color and members of underrepresented groups.
Salary: $68,000 to $74,750