The MacDowell Colony

The view toward Firth and Shop Studios. Photo by Judith Dupre.

Employment Opportunities

The MacDowell Colony in Peterborough, New Hampshire is currently seeking to fill the position of Communications Manager.

Communications Manager

The MacDowell Colony, the nation’s leading multidisciplinary artist residency program, awards fellowships to more than 275 artists from across the country and abroad each year. Located on 450 woodland acres in Peterborough, New Hampshire, the Colony offers composers, writers, visual artists, architects, interdisciplinary artists and filmmakers with uninterrupted time and private space for creative work. MacDowell is seeking a communications professional with the creative and technological skills to participate in the creation of new media platforms, and balance them with traditional media coverage promoting the Colony, its artists and their work. A full-time position based at the Colony, the Communications Manager reports to the Executive Director and collaborates with the Colony’s staff in New Hampshire and New York as well as the communications committee of the board of directors to advance the mission of this nationally recognized arts organization. The ideal candidate is outgoing and enjoys a multi-faceted, deadline-driven environment.

Summary
The Communications Manager develops and implements the organization’s comprehensive communications strategy, including web, print, broadcast and social media. The Communications Manager is responsible for the strategic, creative, and editorial direction of all published media with the goal of deepening existing relationships and strengthening MacDowell’s perceived value among potential donors, artists, and the general public.

Responsibilities

Develop annual communications strategy, schedule and budget in support of the Colony’s long range strategic goals of energizing supporters and attracting high caliber artists to our program.
Design and produce printed and electronic communications including the bi-annual newsletter, monthly e-newsletter, annual report, and regular e-announcements.
Contribute original content and copy edit all written materials published by MacDowell.
Maintain social media presence on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Convio and other platforms to further engage the MacDowell community.
Accelerate implementation of current initiatives including conversion of web site to content management software and integration of Convio e-communication tools.
Work with the board communications committee to develop and implement a mobile interactive platform.
Develop media relations strategy, generate and distribute press releases and related content to enhance the Colony’s positive image in the local community and the world at large.
Working within budget, hire and manage outside consultants/contractors (e.g. webmaster, printers, photographers, vendors, or interns) in support of communications strategy and goals.

Qualifications

Minimum 3 years experience with comparable responsibilities in integrated communications, public relations and social media; non-profit arts experience preferred.

Bachelor’s degree, preferably in communications, journalism or related field.
Proven track record of originating and publishing compelling communications on deadline and within budget.

Strong attention to written and graphic detail; outstanding copy editing and proofreading skills.

Ability to manage and balance multiple projects and competing priorities in support of annual communications goals.

Poised individual with ability to work with diverse staff, artists and board members across the organization.

A sense of humor with an infectious passion for the arts who will add to the camaraderie that fuels a small organization with a commitment to excellence.

To apply

MacDowell offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, including health insurance and retirement benefits, and a beautiful and inspiring working environment.

To be considered for this position, please email cover letter, resume, salary requirements and example of recent work (website link, PDF and/or writing sample). Please with the subject: “Communications Manager”. Please help us make this a successful process: no phone calls, mailed resumes or walk-ins will be accepted.