Public Relations and Communications Coordinator

Position Summary (part-time)

The Public Relations and Communications Coordinator is responsible for building and maintaining the Elgin Symphony Orchestra's (ESO) public profile across the greater Elgin region including neighboring communities. This role manages relationships with regional chambers of commerce and community organizations, writes and distributes press releases to media contacts, maintains the ESO's brand consistency, and supports audience engagement initiatives such as Coffee & Conversation events. The ideal candidate is an organized, deadline-driven communicator who is comfortable managing multiple external relationships and recurring submission calendars.

Key Responsibilities

Community & Chamber Relations

• Maintain relationships with community organizations and regional chambers of commerce.
• Attend relevant committee meetings as needed and represent the ESO's marketing interests.
• Submit concert listings to each chamber's member events calendar in accordance with individual chamber requirements and deadlines.
• Prepare and submit news content (graphics, press releases, and/or 100-word stories) to media and community newsletters, following each organization's specific formatting and submission guidelines.
• Submit event information to Explore Elgin Area at least six months in advance to support regional promotion through Enjoy Illinois magazine, the Explore Elgin Area website, and associated social media channels.

Press Release & Media Distribution

• Draft and finalize press releases for all Classics and special event concerts, targeting completion and approval by 3-4 months prior to each event.
• Draft press releases for community concerts and other communications needs throughout the season.
• Distribute press releases to media contacts 5–6 weeks in advance of each concert, emailing reporters individually with a personalized summary and a photo of the guest artist, Music Director, or orchestra as appropriate.