At National Sawdust, we believe that artistic expression empowers us all to create a more joyful and just world. We curate, commission and produce music and artistic works rooted in curiosity, experimentation, innovation, and inclusivity. We present our work by engaging communities of artists and audiences at our state-of-the-art Williamsburg home and on our digital stage. 

The Chief Communications Officer is a pivotal leadership role at National Sawdust, reporting directly to the Managing Director and closely collaborating with the Artistic Director. Central to our 10th-anniversary celebrations and upcoming Capital Campaign, this role shapes the narrative and messaging that underpins these landmark events.

As a communications strategist, this position plays a crucial role in managing and facilitating the flow of information within the organization and between the organization and its various stakeholders. This includes communication with employees, customers, investors, and the public,  as well as crafting a consistent and cohesive message aligned with our mission and strategic direction.

The ideal candidate will have a robust presence within the NYC arts industry and a deep connection to the performing arts scene, crucial attributes for amplifying our mission and values both within the organization and to the public. This role demands a passion for the arts, strategic acumen in communications, and a commitment to promoting and embodying the mission and values of National Sawdust.

Key Responsibilities:

Oversee and manage all communication efforts, working closely with the Director of Marketing, Community Marketing Manager, Motif Editor and Publicist, with focus on Capital Campaign

Regularly communicate company news, policies, and values through appropriate channels, ensuring consistency and clarity.

Develop and execute a comprehensive communication plan, in collaboration with the Director of Marketing, and Community Marketing Manager, to align and promote National Sawdust's mission and programmatic priorities.

Develop and implement communication strategies that foster understanding, trust, and transparency among internal and external stakeholders.

Collaborate with the development department to integrate strategic messaging into fundraising efforts.

Craft informational messages that align with the organization's mission, values, and goals.

Identify and analyze market challenges and opportunities, and refine the communication strategy to amplify National Sawdust's goals and mission.

Establish and nurture relationships with key stakeholders in the NYC arts industry to elevate National Sawdust's mission and values.

Stay updated with industry trends and best practices to ensure innovative and effective communications strategies.

Partner with publicists to identify opportunities for showcasing National Sawdust and its leadership through podcast appearances and other amplification avenues.

Provide updates, insights, and information on trends and issues in the field to inform National Sawdust's strategy and vision, and assist in meeting its funding needs.

Adapting to evolving organizational needs by taking on additional responsibilities as required to support the mission and strategic goals of National Sawdust.
 

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, or a related field.

A minimum of 7.5 years of experience in communications roles, with a preference for experience within the arts industry and/or non-profit sector

Demonstrated success in developing and executing comprehensive communications plans. 

Strong business acumen, capable of strategic decision making and overseeing large-scale projects.

Experience working with various channels and methods such as public relations, internal communications, media relations, and crisis communications.

Ideal candidate has  fundraising experience, within the nonprofit sector, preferably in the performing arts.

Experience in creating and executing experiential events for donors, audiences, and stakeholders.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to create engaging content for diverse audiences.

Experience in managing a team and working collaboratively across various departments, highlighting an ability to build strong relationships and effectively represent National Sawdust to external stakeholders.

A positive, vibrant attitude with a passion for the arts and an adaptive approach to changing circumstances.

Compensation & Work Environment:

$90,000-$110,000  starting base with bonus potential.

Competitive benefits and vacation package including health insurance and a 401K.

This is a full time position.  Hours will vary from month to month depending on the performance/production nature of National Sawdust’s mission and work.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without unlawful discrimination based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by law. National Sawdust is an equal opportunity employer. 

COVID-19 Vaccination required.

 

Application:

Please submit a cover letter and resume in one PDF to: candidates@nationalsawdust.org with Chief Communications Officer  in the subject line.