Publicist

The Metropolitan Opera is looking for a dynamic publicist to join the Press and Communications team. The successful candidate will be able to place stories in both print and digital media on a regular basis, expanding press coverage for the company beyond traditional placements. The publicist must have deep knowledge and understanding of opera, along with strong familiarity with media publications in New York, nationally, and internationally, as well as excellent news judgment and storytelling ability.

Primary Responsibilities:

Work with the Director of Press and Communications to devise and secure maximum coverage for Met performances and related initiatives across a broad range of print, digital, and broadcast outlets and social media channels.
Provide specialist opera knowledge that can inform repertoire driven stories to support the operas and artists presented by the Met.
Liaise closely with external PR agencies, artist publicists, and managers to maximize media coverage for specific performances, artists, and other initiatives.
Build and maintain excellent ongoing working relationships with journalists, critics, editors, bloggers, and commentators across local, national, and international media.
Draft, coordinate, and distribute press releases for Met productions and other initiatives as required.
Identify and publicize stories related to all Met activities, including The Met:Live in HD, the Met’s comprehensive education program, the Lindemann Young Artist Development Program, the National Council Auditions, the Met Opera Shop, etc.
Provide relevant and informed media-related advice to artists and staff at the Met.
Represent the Met at performances to provide media with information and answer questions (a minimum of two performances per week, including Saturdays and Sundays, throughout the opera season).
Contribute to the smooth operation of the Met press office, including media monitoring, maintaining an extensive, up-to-date contact database, and ensuring that all press queries are dealt with efficiently and in a timely manner.

Requirements

Qualifications & Skill Requirements:

Broad knowledge of the operatic repertoire is essential.
Minimum 4 years of public relations, media relations, communications or journalism experience, ideally in a performing arts environment.
Excellent writing and communications skills.
Proven ability to work under pressure to deliver multiple projects as required.
A developed network of media contacts across arts, entertainment and news media.
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent preferred.

Application Instructions