Career Center

THE POSITION

The Director of Marketing and Communications is a senior leadership role at Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra (LACO), responsible for shaping and executing innovative, data-informed strategies that drive ticket sales, grow audiences, and enhance the Orchestra’s visibility. Reporting to the Executive Director and serving as a member of the senior staff team, the Director leads earned revenue generation, audience development, digital marketing, patron communications, and institutional branding initiatives.

This position manages two full-time team members (Marketing Manager and Patron Services Manager) and oversees key consultants, including LACO’s national public relations firm 21C Media, a local PR consultant, graphic designers, photographers, and videographers. The Director collaborates cross-functionally with Development, Production, and Artistic teams to ensure all outward-facing communications are aligned, on-brand, on time, and effective.

The ideal candidate is a creative and collaborative marketing leader with a sharp focus on results, exceptional storytelling instincts, and a passion for live performance. They will bring strong campaign execution skills, a flair for audience engagement, and an eagerness to contribute to LACO’s next chapter of innovation and growth.

This is a pivotal moment for LACO, as the Orchestra prepares to become the resident ensemble of the new Colburn Center, a world-class Frank Gehry-designed concert hall opening in 2027. The Director will play a central role in shaping the narrative around this historic transition, crafting campaigns that build anticipation, attract new audiences to downtown, and position LACO for long-term institutional growth.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Earned Revenue & Audience Development

• Develop and lead strategies to achieve earned revenue goals of $600,000+ annually from sales of subscriptions, single tickets, and merchandise.
• Oversee audience segmentation, pricing models, and sales initiatives to expand LACO’s patron base across demographics and geographies.
• Set, monitor, and report on measurable KPIs for marketing campaigns and sales performance; monitor results and optimize accordingly.
• Collaborate with Patron Services Manager to ensure seamless customer experience and service.

Strategic Marketing & Campaign Management

• Create and implement annual marketing plans that integrate print, digital, social, email, OOH, and grassroots tactics.
• Supervise development and execution of all collateral: season brochures, print and digital ads, email newsletters, direct mail, program books, and branded merchandise.
• Coordinate with graphic design and multimedia consultants to maintain brand cohesion across platforms.
• Work closely with the PR firm to amplify earned media and institutional visibility locally, nationally, and globally.

Digital & Content Strategy

• Oversee content strategy and analytics across digital platforms, including website, email, and paid/organic social media.
• Ensure brand voice and visual identity are compelling, consistent, and audience-focused.
• Collaborate with photographers, videographers, and other creatives to produce engaging promotional and storytelling assets.

Budgeting & Reporting

• Develop and manage annual marketing expense budget (~$550,000) in coordination with Director of Finance and Administration.
• Track campaign ROI, audience engagement trends, and channel performance using tools like Google Analytics, email dashboards, and CRM reporting.
• Provide regular updates to the Executive Director and Board on marketing and sales performance.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise and mentor the Marketing Manager and Patron Services Manager, fostering a high-performing, collaborative culture.
• Manage relationships with contractors and consultants to ensure timely, on-budget delivery of creative assets and services.
• Partner with senior leadership to align marketing efforts with institutional priorities and strategic goals.

TO APPLY

Please submit a detailed cover letter and resume to: info@laco.org. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum five years of progressive leadership experience in marketing, communications, or audience development within a performing arts or live events context.
• Demonstrated success in driving ticket sales and growing diverse audiences.
• Proficiency with CRM systems (Salesforce/PatronManager), email platforms (e.g., EMMA), and marketing analytics tools.
• Experience managing staff, contractors, and cross-functional campaigns.
• Exceptional verbal, written, and visual communication skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Familiarity with and/or passion for classical music or adjacent arts sectors.
• Experience managing public relations consultants and coordinating earned media strategies.
• Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, WordPress, and Office365.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Strategic, entrepreneurial thinker with a results-driven mindset.
• Passionate about connecting people to the arts.
• Highly organized, deadline-focused, and attentive to detail.
• Strong interpersonal skills and commitment to collaboration.
• Creative sensibility with a talent for storytelling and audience engagement.