Marketing and Community Engagement Manager

Marketing and Community Engagement Manager (Full-Time | Hybrid)

About Classical Music Chicago (CMC)

Classical Music Chicago (CMC) presents free, world-class classical music concerts to people of all ages, backgrounds, and means throughout the city. We are dedicated to opening the door to the transformative power of classical music and to fostering the next generation of musicians. Our programs bring musical excellence to diverse communities, from downtown lunchtime concerts to school programs and wellness-focused performances in senior centers.

CMC is a small, collaborative, and mission-driven team. We value creativity, accessibility, and a deep commitment to serving the public through classical music.

Position Summary

Drives audience growth, community outreach, and donor engagement through strategic marketing, communications, and relationship-building. This role ensures that CMC's mission and programs are effectively communicated to diverse audiences while supporting fundraising initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Marketing and Communications

• Develop and implement comprehensive marketing plans to promote concerts and increase audience attendance.
• Manage CMC’s digital presence, including creating and scheduling engaging content for social media platforms, email campaigns, and the website.
• Oversee the design and production of promotional materials, including brochures, concert programs, newsletters, and press releases.
• Analyze marketing performance metrics to refine strategies and maximize impact.
• Ensure brand consistency across all communication channels and materials.

Community Engagement

• Identify and cultivate relationships with community organizations, educational institutions, and cultural groups to expand audience reach.
• Create initiatives to engage underserved or new audiences in CMC programming.

Fundraising and Development

• In collaboration with the Executive Director, build and maintain relationships with donors, sponsors, and corporate partners.
• Develop a communications strategy around fundraising campaign goals, ensuring cohesive messaging and consistent outreach.
• Support donor cultivation through targeted campaigns, recognition strategies, and special events.
• Assist with grant writing by providing program narratives, audience data, and impact stories.

Event Management and Collaboration

• In collaboration with the Executive Director, plan and execute donor events, audience engagement activities, and other special programs.
• Coordinate outreach efforts to promote specific concerts, initiatives, and fundraising campaigns.

Administrative and Reporting

• Maintain a CRM system to track donor and audience engagement data.
• Prepare regular reports on marketing, outreach, and development efforts for internal and external stakeholders.
• Stay informed about trends in arts marketing and nonprofit communications to integrate innovative approaches into CMC strategies.

Work Location and Schedule

This hybrid position is based in downtown Chicago. In-person presence is required for CMC’s weekly concert series on Wednesdays year-round and on Tuesday afternoons during the summer, as well as for other special events or meetings.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: $50,000-$55,000, commensurate with experience
• Benefits include: health insurance, paid time off, and support for professional development

Desired Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in marketing, communications, or community engagement (preferably in the arts or nonprofit sector) preferred; entry-level candidates with a marketing degree welcome
• Strong writing and editing skills with attention to detail
• Experience with digital marketing platforms (e.g., Constant Contact, WordPress, Canva, Meta Business Suite)
• Familiarity with CRM systems and data tracking
• Knowledge of donor stewardship and fundraising strategies a plus
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a small team environment
• A passion for music, the arts, and community engagement

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter explaining your interest in the position through the Handshake portal or to employment@classicalmusicchicago.org with the subject line: Marketing and Community Engagement Manager Application. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Classical Music Chicago is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, immigration status, or any other legally protected status.