Communications Specialist

Foundation Summary The Carl & Marilynn Thoma Art Foundation recognizes the power of the arts to challenge and shift perceptions, spark creativity, and connect people across cultures. Position Summary The Thoma Art Foundation has an immediate opening for a part-time Communications Specialist to create, implement, and oversee the Foundation’s communications including developing content and maintaining a consistent presence on our various social media channels, writing and distributing press releases, website management, and email communications. A successful candidate will have a passion for public relations, as creating and building new relationships is crucial to growing the foundation’s reach. Our Communications Specialist must be strategic and creative thinking with continual outreach to press, journalists and the leaders at major art institutions with the intention of extending invitations to openings, sharing news of our current activities, new programs, and acquisitions. Responsibilities • Proactively cultivate and steward press relationships in Chicago, Santa Fe, and nationally • Network with art, cultural and philanthropic communities to foster relationships and potential partnerships • Fine-tune, manage and continually grow to our press lists • Write and distribute press materials, including press releases and images • Respond to press inquiries and provide art tours when requested • Monitor and provide media coverage and web traffic reports • Manage Foundation’s website and social media channels, including content creation • Proactively manage Foundation-wide contact database • Compose and send Foundation’s monthly e-newsletter and regular e-blasts • Create copy for advertisements and in-house exhibition collateral (labels and brochures) while also working with outside graphic designer for larger design projects (graphic design skills a significant plus) • Update Foundation information on local and national listings • Develop advertising strategy related to exhibition and Foundation endeavors • Direct special media projects related to Foundation’s grant-making activity • Support Program Office with grantee communication for cross-promotion and Foundation recognition • Oversee Foundation branding materials and style guide