Director of Marketing & Communications

📌 Core Information 🔹 Job Title: Director of Marketing & Communications 🔹 Company: MacPhail Center for Music 🔹 Location: Minneapolis, MN, USA 🔹 Job Type: Full-time, On-site 🔹 Category: Marketing & Communications 🔹 Date Posted: April 10, 2025 🔹 Experience Level: 10+ years 🔹 Remote Status: On-site 🚀 Job Overview Key aspects of this role include: 1. Developing and managing the MacPhail brand. 2. Overseeing internal and external communications. 3. Creating strategies to drive enrollment, revenue, awareness, and engagement. 4. Leading a team of 4 staff and guiding external agencies and contractors. 5. Participating in the overall management of the institution. ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong leadership skills, and the ability to balance both creative and analytical tasks. 📋 Key Responsibilities ✅ Develop and implement comprehensive marketing and communications strategies. ✅ Manage, guide, and support marketing and communications staff. ✅ Develop and oversee brand strategy, visual identity, and messaging. ✅ Employ traditional and non-traditional platforms for establishing MacPhail's identity. ✅ Manage media relations and crisis communications. ✅ Serve as a representative for the institution in the community, the field, and with media. ✅ Lead and analyze the effectiveness of digital marketing/communications efforts. ✅ Introduce and oversee tools, processes, and systems to manage, measure, and track effectiveness. ✅ Oversee the execution of campaigns and content to support organizational objectives. ✅ Oversee the creation, production, and distribution of materials for marketing initiatives, fundraising activities, and event support. ✅ Work closely with program leadership and advancement to develop and execute strategic plans and initiatives. ✅ Oversee market research, including the annual student satisfaction survey and periodic program research. ✅ Oversee and maintain relationships with outside vendors. ✅ Plan, manage, and maintain departmental budget. ✅ Other related projects or duties as assigned. ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong project management skills, attention to detail, and the ability to balance multiple priorities. 🎯 Required Qualifications Education: - Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, or a related field Experience: - Ten or more years of combined experience in marketing and communications, public/media relations, and digital strategies - Proven success in the management and development of full-time staff - Experience in project management, data management, and analysis - Demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion - Experience in marketing and communications for arts, cultural, and/or educational organizations preferred Required Skills: - Experience with and understanding of all areas of marketing and communications - Proven analytic and problem-solving skills - Proven ability to create and successfully execute a multi-strategy, multi-year marketing and communications plan - Ability to lead, supervise, motivate, and evaluate staff in a fast-paced, hybrid work environment - Ability to manage and prioritize work within a small, nimble team responsible for both strategy and implementation - Excellent written and verbal communication skills - Ability to interact and communicate in a professional manner with key constituencies - Ability to communicate and disseminate information to both internal and external individuals, with great attention to detail - Demonstrated ability to increase productivity and continuously improve methods, approaches, and departmental contribution - A commitment to continuous learning - Curiosity about the current landscape for the arts, music, and music education Preferred Qualifications: - Experience with CRM databases, SEO, e-commerce, videography, and photography 💰 Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: $120,000 - $140,000 per year Benefits: - Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance - Retirement plan with employer match - Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays) - Tuition reimbursement for employees and dependents - Professional development opportunities - Employee discounts on MacPhail programs and events Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with flexibility for occasional evening and weekend events 📌 Applicant Insights 🔍 Company Context Industry: Music education and arts Company Size: 201-500 employees Founded: 1907 Company Description: MacPhail Center for Music is a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming lives and communities through exceptional music learning. They offer music education in 35 instruments at 132 locations throughout the Twin Cities and statewide, serving 16,000 students annually. Company Specialties: Individual Lessons, Classes and Ensembles, Early Childhood Music, Suzuki Talent Education, Music Therapy, Live Online Lessons, Concerts and Performances, and Summer Camps Company Website: http://www.macphail.org ASSUMPTION: MacPhail Center for Music is a well-established organization with a strong reputation in the community. They value innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to exceptional music learning experiences. 📊 Role Analysis Career Level: Executive-level role, reporting directly to the CEO Reporting Structure: The Director of Marketing & Communications will lead a team of 4 staff and guide the work of external agencies and contractors. They will also participate in the overall management of the institution. Work Arrangement: This role is on-site, with occasional flexibility for remote work and attendance at evening and weekend events. Growth Opportunities: This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the organization's brand, communications, and overall success. It also provides the potential for career growth within the institution. 🌍 Location & Work Environment Office Type: On-site, with a hybrid work arrangement for some team members Office Location(s): 501 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401, US (Main Office) Geographic Context: Minneapolis is the largest city in Minnesota, with a vibrant arts and culture scene. It offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, amenities, and recreational opportunities. Work Schedule: The work schedule is generally Monday-Friday, with occasional flexibility for evening and weekend events. ASSUMPTION: The work environment at MacPhail Center for Music is collaborative, creative, and fast-paced. Employees are expected to be adaptable, proactive, and committed to the organization's mission. 💼 Interview & Application Insights Typical Process: 1. Online application submission 2. Phone or video screen with the hiring manager 3. In-person or virtual interview with the hiring team 4. Final interview with the CEO Key Assessment Areas: - Strategic thinking and planning - Leadership and management skills - Communication and presentation skills - Knowledge of marketing and communications best practices - Ability to work effectively in a team environment Application Tips: - Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role. - Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, leadership style, and ability to work in a collaborative environment. - Familiarize yourself with MacPhail Center for Music's mission, values, and programs to demonstrate your fit with the organization's culture. ATS Keywords: Marketing, Communications, Brand Management, Strategic Planning, Team Leadership, Media Relations, Digital Marketing, CRM, SEO, Event Management, Non-profit, Arts Education 🛠️ Tools & Technologies - Marketing and communications software (e.g., CRM, email marketing platforms) - Design and graphics software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Canva) - Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello) - Analytics and reporting tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Tableau) - Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer) - Content management systems (e.g., WordPress, Drupal) - Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) 👔 Cultural Fit Considerations Company Values: - Excellence in music education - Innovation and creativity - Collaboration and teamwork - Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion - Passion for music and its transformative power Work Style: - Adaptable and proactive - Strong communication and interpersonal skills - Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment - Committed to continuous learning and professional development - Curious about the current landscape for the arts, music, and music education Self-Assessment Questions: 1. How do your personal values align with MacPhail Center for Music's mission and values? 2. Describe your experience working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, and how you have adapted to change or uncertainty. 3. How do you approach continuous learning and professional development, and what specific skills or knowledge have you acquired recently? 4. How do you balance creativity and innovation with data-driven decision-making and strategic planning? 5. Describe your experience working with diverse teams and promoting an inclusive work environment. 🛠️ Potential Challenges 1. Balancing the demands of a strategic, leadership role with the tactical aspects of marketing and communications. 2. Managing a team and external vendors while also participating in the overall management of the institution. 3. Adapting to the unique needs and constraints of a non-profit organization. 4. Maintaining a strong brand presence in a competitive arts and culture landscape. 5. Balancing the need for innovation with the organization's commitment to exceptional music learning experiences. 📈 Similar Roles Comparison 1. Director of Marketing & Communications vs. Marketing Manager: - The Director of Marketing & Communications role requires more strategic planning, leadership, and budget management responsibilities. It also involves guiding the work of external agencies and contractors, as well as participating in the overall management of the institution. - A Marketing Manager role may focus more on the tactical execution of marketing campaigns and may not require the same level of strategic planning or leadership responsibilities. 2. MacPhail Center for Music vs. Other Arts Organizations: - MacPhail Center for Music is a well-established organization with a strong reputation in the community. They value innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to exceptional music learning experiences. - Other arts organizations may have different priorities, resources, or cultural environments. It is essential to research each organization's unique context and requirements. 📝 Sample Projects 1. Developing and implementing a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy to increase enrollment and revenue. 2. Managing a rebranding initiative to update the organization's visual identity and messaging. 3. Planning and executing a major fundraising campaign to support the organization's programs and initiatives. 4. Overseeing the creation, production, and distribution of marketing materials for a series of concerts and performances. 5. Conducting market research to identify trends and opportunities in the arts and music education landscape. 💡 Key Questions to Ask During Interview 1. What are the most significant challenges facing the marketing and communications department, and how can this role address them? 2. How does this role fit into the organization's long-term strategic plans, and what are the key priorities for the first 90 days? 3. What are the most important qualities and skills you are looking for in a candidate for this role? 4. How does the organization support the professional development and growth of its employees? 5. What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) used to measure the success of the marketing and communications department, and how can this role contribute to their improvement? 📝 Next Steps for Applicants To apply for this position: 1. Submit your application through the following link: https://macphailcenterformusic.applytojob.com/apply/ROeCKXJkwy/Director-Of-Marketing-Communications 2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role. 3. Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, leadership style, and ability to work in a collaborative environment. 4. Familiarize yourself with MacPhail Center for Music's mission, values, and programs to demonstrate your fit with the organization's culture. 5. Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and inquire about the next steps in the interview process. ⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.