United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829 is accepting applications for the position of Communications Director.
The Communications Director reports to the National Director and is responsible for devising and executing strategic communication plans for the union. With the Communications Associate, this role stewards and enhances internal and external communication efforts representing the union on a national level. From negotiations to governance and from safety to educational programming and beyond, the Communications Director collaborates with union leaders, rank-and-file members, and all Business Office departments to engage members, amplify messaging, and support the Local’s strategic planning mission, vision, values, and goals.
The Communications Director will work closely with the Business Agent, Corresponding Secretary, and the Local Union Executive Board’s Communications Committee to prepare materials, innovate communication efforts, and offer broader guidance. The Communications Department, as led by the Director, believes in instilling member-led and collaborative engagement, delivering consistent and transparent access to information, strengthening community and relationship building, providing opportunity, and celebrating our members as artists and workers.
Description of Duties:
- Oversee the Communications Department, including the Communications Associate, by setting work priorities, managing schedules and various projects, and ensuring the operational effectiveness of all union communications and related platforms.
- Develop and implement communications plans in collaboration with union leaders and Business Office departments for numerous campaigns and projects (i.e. negotiations, education, industry and member crafts, etc.).
- Manage and coordinate all aspects of media relations, including drafting press releases, talking points, and providing general messaging guidance as needed.
Oversee management of email program and union website and project management of technical enhancements.
- Assist in the creation and publication of quarterly newsletter and other union publications.
- Interface regularly with union leaders and committees, rank-and-file members, and Business Office to create strategy, devise assets, and implement collaborative goals.
- Bolster and evolve the union’s brand as a thought leader in labor and across the entertainment industry.
- Visit job sites, events, and meetings to engage with the membership and create content for the various union media outlets and publications.
- Perform other duties as required.
Skills Requirements:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking and presentations.
- High degree of computer literacy (such as Microsoft Office) and knowledge of social media.
- Graphic design savvy and working comprehension using various design platforms, such as Adobe Suite (InDesign, Photoshop) and Canva
- Experience with email and digital organizing platforms, such as Action Network and MailChimp.
- Proficiency using content management platforms and website CMS, such as Hootsuite, Tweetdeck, and DNN Platform.
- High level of organization and effectiveness, participate in and lead multiple projects simultaneously to meet tight deadlines.
- Can lead a team, but also work independently while setting own and departmental SMART goals.
- High sense of emotional intelligence; experience working with people from a diverse array of backgrounds.
- Naturally enterprising, genuinely curious, and a good storyteller.
- Ability to work extended hours as needed.
The successful applicant will have good language skills both verbal and written, experience in public affairs, digital organizing, or communications. Previous experience with the labor movement or other advocacy organizations, and/or a bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related subject is a plus. Labor or other social justice work experience strongly preferred.
The salary range for this position is $90K-$110K, plus an excellent benefits package. This position is based in our New York City office.
To Apply:
- Please provide a cover letter, résumé, and your portfolio (applicable materials include clips and press releases you’ve written, design and/or social media work, campaigns you’ve created and lead, etc.)
- Send all materials via e-mail to Operations Director LeVonne Barry at: JOBSEARCH@USA829.ORG.
- No phone calls or office visits will be considered.
- For more information on Local USA 829, visit: www.usa829.org.
Local USA 829 is committed to the principles of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. We are interested in candidates who are not historically represented in our field and encourage applications from under-represented groups.
Not sure you meet 100% of our qualifications? Research shows that men apply for jobs when they fulfill and average of 60% of the criteria, yet women and other people who are systematically marginalized tend only to apply if they meet every requirement. If you believe that you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply. We are dedicated to considering a broad array of candidates including those with diverse workplace experiences and backgrounds. So, whether you’re returning to work after a gap in employment, simply looking to transition, or taking the next step in your career path, we will be glad to have you on our radar. Please use your cover letter to tell us about what you hope to bring to this role and how your background and experience responds to the desired skills and qualities