job posting: Communications Director   @The Archie Bray Foundation

by Carole Epp | Feb 11, 2021 | job posting

The Archie Bray Foundation seeks a full‐time Communications Director to manage and strengthen the organization’s ongoing communications efforts. Reporting to the Resident Artist Director, this professional should have an established background in directing and managing a multi‐channel communications strategy. Nonprofit work experience is preferred. The Bray is an equal opportunity employer and celebrates diversity. Women, LGBTQ+ and persons of color are encouraged to apply.

Organization  

The Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts (Bray) is an internationally recognized arts organization  located in Helena, Montana. Founded in 1951, the Bray is a public, nonprofit organization dedicated to the enrichment of the ceramic arts offering artist residencies, public exhibitions, ceramic supplies, and educational workshops and community classes for adults and children. The Bray’s facilities include year-round and seasonal artist studios, education and research facility, sales gallery, rotating exhibition spaces, kiln facilities, administrative offices and a retail ceramic supply operation. The Bray recently completed a $6 million capital campaign for a new education center (2017), renovated administrative offices (2018) and new sales, exhibition and history galleries (2021).

Mission 

The Archie Bray Foundation is actively committed to promoting, celebrating, and sustaining the ceramic arts through the residency program, education, gallery, ceramic materials and technology, and community engagement on a local, national, and international scale.  In the words of Archie himself, the  Bray makes available, “for all who are seriously and sincerely interested in any of the branches of the ceramic arts, a fine place to work”. 

Summary of Responsibilities 

This position will be responsible for providing leadership, planning, organization, and implementation of an annual comprehensive communications program. They will work closely with internationally recognized ceramic artists, a national board of directors, and existing staff.

The ideal candidate will have the professional skills, administrative strengths and personal qualities to thrive in a fast‐paced, creative environment. They should possess strong experience related to print,  audio, video, social media and other electronic promotional efforts. Most importantly, they must be motivated to further the mission of the Bray, one of the leading ceramic arts organizations in the world.  The Bray is located in historic Helena, Montana, a small and artistically supportive community with close access to outdoor recreation and reasonable cost of living.

Salary range is $47,000 to $52,000 per year. Awarded salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Early submissions are encouraged. Applications will be reviewed beginning March 5,  2021. This position will remain open until filled.

Job Responsibilities  

∙ Work closely with Resident Artist Director to develop a brand voice for the Bray

∙ Work with program/department heads (clay business, broadcasting, development, education, gallery, and residency) to develop overall communications strategies and ensure clear, consistent messaging across program areas that adheres closely to the Bray Style Guide.

∙ Manage Communications Manager, an hourly, full‐time position (currently filled).

∙ Create, review/modify annually, and direct the annual communications plan.

∙ Oversee the website to ensure it is updated and dynamic

∙ Manage and direct Bray social media accounts

∙ Create or direct development of promotional materials and drive marketing efforts for special events related to residency, development and fundraising.

∙ Manage media relations and develop/maintain contact with media members, influencers, and community leaders.

∙ Willingness to make public appearances/accept speaking engagements on behalf of the Bray.  ∙ Manage Bray presence at industry events.

∙ Provide support for special events including the annual auction and anniversary events.  ∙ Co‐development (with Development Director) of publications to support fundraising activities.  ∙ Demonstrate professional conduct at all times.

∙ Perform other related duties as requested.

∙ Create annual budget for communications and ensure compliance.

Qualifications  

∙ Passion for the arts

∙ Strong written, verbal and interpersonal skills.

∙ Strong grammar and editing skills

∙ Experience in developing project and organizational budgets.

∙ Possess the skills to work with and motivate staff, board members and other volunteers.  ∙ Creative, self‐starter and goal-driven individual who can also work well with a small, hardworking staff  ∙ Time management and flexibility with job duties.

∙ Experience with communications software and tools.

∙ Exhibit “follow through” on tasks and goals.

∙ Display a positive attitude, show concern for people and community, demonstrate presence, self-confidence, common sense and good listening ability.

Compensation and Benefits 

∙ Salaried; Full‐time ‐ $47,000 to $52,000 per year

∙ Health, vision and dental insurance

∙ Generous Paid Time Off program and other benefits according to Archie Bray Foundation policies  ∙ Flexible work environment and schedule

Hours

∙ 40 hours/week; occasional travel, weekend days or evenings required. This is a permanent, full‐time, exempt position.

To Apply  

Interested candidates should follow this link to our application portal on Slideroom.com. General questions may be addressed to [email protected] or Archie Bray Foundation, 2915 Country Club  Ave., Helena, MT, 59602. No phone calls, please.