Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees
IATSE Local 161

Communications Director

Based in New York City, NY

 

Local 161 is a Union of Motion Picture Script Supervisors, Production Coordinators, Assistant Production Coordinators, Travel Coordinators, Production Accountants, Assistant Production Accountants and Payroll Accountants of nearly 1700 members in 23 states and the District of Columbia.

Applications are being accepted for the position of Communications Director. This position will be based out of the New York City headquarters of Local 161. Hybrid and remote work situations will be considered for the right candidate.

Summary Statement:
This position is responsible for helping develop and maintain Local 161’s “brand identity’ and public image, ensuring all materials, printed or online, adhere to the Local’s cohesive appearance and messaging. This position helps draft, develop, and edit content and communications copy, and maintains digital and social media activity for the organization. They work closely with the Business Agent, elected leadership, and committees to set communications schedules, brainstorm, and develop strategy, messaging, graphics, video, and digital presentations, as well as the execution of materials aimed at increasing member involvement, input, and engagement. Attendance at staff and various leadership meetings is required, as necessary. This position reports directly to the Business Agent of Local 161.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

• Shape and implement the overall communications strategies for Local 161
• Prepare informational email blasts and when necessary, printed materials
• Produce weekly email publications
• Work with member-led committee to publish quarterly newsletter
• Manage and promote the Local 161 social media accounts
• Track projects and media exposure
• Draft and edit communications copy (press releases, publications, social media posts)
• Design graphics for Local 161 publications and social media platforms
• Assist in maintaining and updating website content
• Maintain communication-related databases and mailing lists
• Monitor and update promotional email blasts and website advertising
• Strategize communications and social media coverage for events
• Interact with other departments within the Local to help inform members of opportunities and activities
• Craft campaign materials alongside other IATSE Locals at key moments and during high-profile campaigns (#IASolidarity)
• Prepare presentations and reports that present the work of the department
• Work to ensure we are emphasizing projects, opportunities, events, and information that highlight our entire membership
• Perform other related duties as directed by the Business Agent

Experience:
Preference will be given to candidates with 3 or more years experience in Communications for a labor union, or related work within the entertainment industry. Some knowledge of IATSE, collective bargaining and the labor movement, is a plus. A professional attitude is a must.

Qualifications -The most qualified candidate needs the following:

• College degree/3 years of experience in related field
• Strong writing and editing skills with experience in producing a variety of written communication forms, styles, and tones
• Experience creating and executing social media engagement strategies across various platforms (including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube)
• Tech-savvy, including proficiency in many/all the following: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), Canva, email marketing tools (such as MailChimp or Action Network), and the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Acrobat Pro, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere). Familiarity or a willingness to learn Gmail, Slack, and Zoom is required.
• Attention to detail with strong organizational skills, analytical problem-solving, and the ability to work with confidential documents
• Basic knowledge of content management systems (CMS) and HTML
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-based environment
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple work streams and relationships
• Ability to be creative and responsive in a fast-paced environment
• Strong desire to learn new communications strategies as technology changes
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and achieve deadlines under pressure
• Flexible to work some weekends, evenings, and overtime
• Previous union experience highly recommended

Salary:
The current salary range is $65,000 - $85,000 based on qualifications and experience and includes a competitive and comprehensive benefits package (MPIPHP)

Application Instructions:
Interested applicants should email a current résumé and cover letter in PDF format to info@local161.org.

No phone calls or office visits will be considered.