Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Penn State School of Theatre seeks a creative, strategic, and collaborative Assistant Director of Marketing, Communications, and Engagementto lead marketing, communications, audience engagement, and public relations efforts for one of the nation's premier university theatre programs.
This position plays a vital role in advancing the School of Theatre's mission byexpanding audiences, elevating theprofileof Penn State Centre Stage, andstrengthening relationships with community partners, alumni, and donors
The Assistant Directordevelops andexecutesmarketing and communications strategies that promote productions,support audience growth,andadvancetheSchool'sreputation and impact across the University and broader community.
The position oversees brand management, digitalmedia, publications, social media,public relations,special events, and communitypartnerships
Develop and execute comprehensive marketing strategies aligned with the School of Theatre's strategic plan and University priorities.
Create annual marketing plans for Penn State Centre Stage productions, recruitment initiatives,andspecial events
Analyze market trends, audience data, and campaign performance to inform strategic decision-making and improve marketing effectiveness.
Develop innovative initiatives that strengthen audiencegrowth, increase participation, andexpand communityengagement
Curate andmaintaina consistent visual identity and messaging strategy for the School of Theatre and Penn State Centre Stage.
Lead the creation, writing, editing, and production of marketing and communications materials, including production campaigns, playbills, brochures, newsletters, advertising, press releases, promotional materials, and multimedia content.
Publish and edit The Callboard, the School of Theatre's alumni newsletter.
Coordinate internal and external communications that advance the visibility and reputation of theSchool
Oversee and manage the Penn State Centre Stage websiteas a key recruitment, marketing, and audience-engagement resource.
Create and oversee compelling content across multiple platforms, including social media, email marketing, digital advertising, photography, videography, short-form video, and web content.
Developvisual storytelling that highlights productions, students, faculty, and staff.
Monitor analyticsand performance metrics to evaluate and strengthendigital marketingstrategies.
Identify, develop, and cultivate strategic partnershipsacross the University and throughout the broader community.
Serve as the primary liaison to the Penn State Centre Stage Community Council.
Foster relationships with community organizations, alumni, donors, andarts andculturalinstitutions
Represent Penn State Centre Stage at University and community events.
Assistin the research, writing, editing, and coordination of grant proposals and funding opportunities.
Coordinate marketing and communications for School of Theatre and Penn State Centre Stageproductions, recruitment activities, alumni programs, donor engagement initiatives, and community events.
Coordinate media relations, photography, and promotional efforts with internal and external partners.
Maintain production photography archives and help ensuretheatretechnology is operational andevent-ready
Develop public relations strategies that increase regional and national visibilityfor the School and Centre Stage.
Partner with College of Arts and Architecture and University Marketing & Communications colleagueson strategic communications initiatives
Develop and manage marketing budgets for advertising, promotional materials, publications, andspecial events
Monitor expenditures and reconcile departmental marketing budgets.
Oversee production schedules and ensuretimelycompletion of marketing projects.
Manage multiple priorities whilemaintainingexceptional attention to detail.
Important Note: Due to the production schedule of the School of Theatre, the Assistant Director will be required to work occasional evenings and weekends.
Demonstrated experience in marketing, communications, or public relations.
Effective written, editing, and verbal communication skills.
Experience developing integrated marketing campaigns across print, digital, and social media.
Experience with social media management, content creation, photography, and videography.
Effectiveproject management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Experience with website content management systems and digital marketing platforms.
Proficiencywith Adobe Creative Suite or comparable design software.
Outstandinganalytical skills and experience evaluating marketing effectiveness through data and reporting.
Experience in higher education, performing arts, nonprofit arts organizations, or cultural institutions.
Experience with audience development and performing arts marketing.
Experience writing grants or supporting fundraising initiatives.
Familiarity with email marketing platforms and marketing analytics.
Experience planning public events and donor engagement activities.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree
3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
A degree inmarketing, communications, public relations, arts administration, journalism, or a related fieldis preferred.
Applicants mustsubmita cover letter addressing their interest and relevant experience, in addition to a resume.
This position will report tothe Director of the School of Theatre,which ispart of the College of Arts and Architecture.
The College of Arts and Architectureis supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position.
Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
About the School of Theatre and Penn State Centre Stage:
Penn State Centre Stage is the professional training arm of the Penn State School of Theatre, where students collaborate with award-winning faculty and accomplished guest artists to produce a dynamic season of classical works, contemporary plays, musicals, and new works.
Through a rigorous, hands-on production environment, Centre Stage bridges classroom learning and professional practice, preparing the next generation of theatre artists, designers, technicians, stage managers, and creative leaders while engaging audiences with exceptional live performance.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $54,060.00 - $78,444.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
