LEEDS GRAND THEATRE AND OPERA HOUSE LTD
JOB DESCRIPTION
HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS (Maternity Cover 1 year), Leeds Grand Theatre, City Varieties Music Hall, Hyde Park Picture House.
POST(S) TO WHICH DIRECTLY RESPONSIBLE
Theatres Director, Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House Ltd.
POST(S) FOR WHICH DIRECTLY RESPONSIBLE
Marketing Manager, Leeds Grand Theatre; Marketing Manager, City Varieties Music Hall; Box Office Manager, Leeds Grand Theatre, Press and PR Manager and Digital Communications Manager
PURPOSE OF JOB
To take a strategic lead on the marketing and sales functions of Leeds Grand Theatre, City Varieties Music Hall and Hyde Park Picture House; to manage the Box Office function for all three venues.
RESPONSIBILITIES
· Lead the team to develop the business, increase income and create positive awareness locally, regionally and nationally of Leeds Grand Theatre, City Varieties and Hyde Park Picture House in order to deliver the vision of the Board of Trustees, as defined by the Board and the Theatres Director.
· Ensure continuity of service levels on the ticketing system (Audience View) and provide the necessary analysis of data that supports marketing and budgetary planning.
· Be the first point of contact for the personnel function relating to marketing and box office staff. Be responsible for the effective management and motivation of these staff, including recruitment, professional and personal development, and performance monitoring.
· Support the Marketing Managers to plan creative and innovative marketing campaigns across the venues and tailored to the needs of each venue and its target audiences.
· Ensure the high quality and efficient delivery of all day to day marketing activities, including audience development, copywriting, design, print, all media including outdoor advertising, direct mail, internet and email communication and any other promotional activities in line with the vision of the company.
· Support the PR Manager in the effective management of media campaigns, maximising coverage for all venues through all channels.
· In the event of a potential negative PR incident, work with the PR Manager to ensure that appropriate messages and statements are agreed, prepared and issued as appropriate and liaise with all relevant Senior Managers, Board and staff to ensure consistency.
· Ensure positive and productive relationships are maintained with all major stakeholders including resident companies, visiting companies, funders, media and relevant regional and national development agencies
· Support the Digital Communications Manager in updating and managing the Leeds Grand Theatre and City Varieties websites. To include planning future development work as well as making improvements based on customer feedback where possible.
· Liaise with the General Manager at Leeds Grand Theatre and City Varieties on pricing structures and programming to ensure audience and income targets are achieved
· With the Box Office Manager and Deputy Box Office Managers ensure customer service levels are maintained and that staff are up to date with training and procedures
· Provide support for Box Office function at Hyde Park Picture House as required
· Work with the General Manager and Administrator at Hyde Park Picture House to deliver increased audiences and greater awareness of the venue
· Manage the complaints procedure for both Leeds Grand Theatre and City Varieties, including responding to all complaints, monitoring customer satisfaction surveys and providing information to the Board and Senior Management.
· Oversee marketing support for the business development and learning functions as required.
· Keep abreast of new and relevant marketing and sales techniques including new and emerging media.
· To use Audience View to maximise individual giving across all three venues
· Be accountable to and work effectively with the Theatres Director, ensuring constructive debate and effective decision making.
· Work effectively as part of the senior management team of the company.
· Play an advocacy role by representing the team and the Company at relevant external and internal meetings.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Detailed below are the skills, experience and knowledge that applicants are required to demonstrate in applying for the post. The ‘Essential Requirements’ indicate the minimum requirements and applicants lacking these attributes will not be considered for the post. The points detailed under ‘Desirable Requirements’ are additional attributes to enable the applicant to perform the position more effectively or with little or no training. They are not essential, but may be used to distinguish between acceptable candidates.
ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:
1. Successful and proven track record in developing marketing and promotional strategies, audience development and innovative campaign management.
2. Good working knowledge of a computerised/internet box office system.
3. Proven skills and experience in copywriting, design, print, radio and outdoor advertising, direct mail, internet and e-mail communication.
4. Effective financial management skills including the ability to set and meet budget targets.
5. Ability to demonstrate motivation, inclusivity, and experience of team management.
6. Excellent planning, communication, presentation, negotiation and networking skills.
7. Knowledge of the principles of consultation and engagement with customers and potential customers.
8. Ability to demonstrate an understanding and awareness of the heritage of the venues and their unique selling points.
9. Experience in delivering marketing in a cultural environment.
10. Experience in brand development and a strong visual sensibility.
11. Ability to work flexibly and imaginatively, as well as the ability to meet deadlines under pressure.
12. Commitment to and a passion for culture and the performing arts.
13. Commitment to equality and diversity.
DESIRABLE REQUIREMENTS:
1. CIM (Chartered Institute of Marketing) or other relevant professional qualification.
2. Ability to demonstrate a commitment to developing the role of the company in the cultural offer of the city
3. Experience of managing marketing and communications for a major capital fundraising campaign