Full-time Public Relations Manager

Houston International Ballet - Houston, TX

Full-time - Mid Level

Remote - Houston, TX

Performing Arts, Spectator Sports, and Related Industries

About the position

The Public Relations Manager at Houston Ballet plays a crucial role in maximizing the organization's external presence in the media. This position is integral to the Marketing and PR department, working closely with the Director of Marketing & PR on various projects. The role is based on-site at the Houston Ballet headquarters in Houston, Texas, and is designed for a professional who is passionate about the arts and has a strong background in public relations. The Public Relations Manager will develop and implement an annual PR plan that aligns with Houston Ballet's strategic goals and promotes its performances and educational programs. This includes crafting pitches, booking interviews, and coordinating media coverage across various platforms such as print, TV, and radio. In addition to media relations, the Public Relations Manager will serve as the primary liaison with earned media and press, ensuring high visibility for Houston Ballet by identifying and securing press opportunities at local, regional, national, and international levels. Building and cultivating relationships with media representatives is essential, as is developing compelling story ideas for coverage. The manager will also prepare spokespeople for interviews, organize media training sessions, and draft briefing notes to ensure effective communication. The role involves managing press-related logistics, including coordinating media press tickets, assembling press kits, and maintaining a comprehensive press list database. The Public Relations Manager will oversee the press table during opening night performances and other events, write and distribute press releases, media advisories, and public service announcements (PSAs), and manage the tracking and reporting of press coverage. Regular sharing of press coverage with key staff and stakeholders is also a critical responsibility. Additionally, the manager will contribute to the Houston Ballet blog and collaborate with colleagues to develop high-quality photography and videography assets. All tasks must be executed while maintaining brand integrity and a patron-centered focus, emphasizing teamwork and a positive attitude.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement an annual PR plan that supports Houston Ballet's strategic plan 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 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.
• Work with colleagues to develop high-quality photography and videography assets.
• Assist the Marketing & PR department with all other projects and tasks as assigned.

Requirements

• 3+ years of Public Relations experience
• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations or related field required
• Fluency in writing with 3 writing samples included
• Prior media relations experience with a proven track record of securing media coverage
• 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.

Nice-to-haves

• Non-profit or performing arts experience

Benefits

• Healthcare Benefits including medical, dental, and vision care with low-cost or zero monthly premiums.
• Retirement Plan with a 403(b) plan and a 5% annual contribution from Houston Ballet.
• 3 weeks of paid vacation, 10 paid sick days, and 10 paid holidays, along with paid parental leave.
• Access to online training and professional growth resources specific to arts management.
• Discounted and complimentary tickets to ballet performances and other Houston theater district venues.
• Access to on-site gym and counseling services through an employee assistance plan.
• Flexible work hours and remote work options.