Director of Donor and Media Relations

Austin Civic Orchestra • Contract Position • Austin, Texas

The Austin Civic Orchestra (ACO), founded in 1977, is a nonprofit ensemble dedicated to bringing high‑quality, accessible music to the Greater Austin community. We perform classical masterworks, pops, film scores, and contemporary works in welcoming venues across the city.

Learn more: austincivicorchestra.org

Responsibilities

This role works collaboratively as part of a small, supportive team that shares responsibilities across donor relations, marketing, and media.

Donor Relations & Stewardship

  • Create and implement an annual giving and stewardship strategy.
  • Lead strategy and execution for local and national giving days (e.g., Giving Tuesday, end-of year appeal, Amplify Austin, end‑of‑season appeal).
  • Develop annual fundraising goals aligned with organizational needs.
  • Manage the development budget.
  • Create, maintain, and execute the annual fundraising calendar.
  • Update and maintain the donor CRM.
  • Maintain regular communication with donors, sponsors, and foundations.
  • Provide monthly reports to the ACO Board of Directors.
  • Attend ACO functions as directed.

Marketing

  • Implement the season advertising plan within the designated budget.
  • Write ad content and coordinate artwork with the graphic designer.
  • Ensure ACO communication channels are updated for each concert.
  • Maintain and post events to free community calendars.
  • Create and post content for ACO social media channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram).
  • Write and implement email marketing campaigns.
  • Monitor analytics to improve communication effectiveness.
  • Assist with development of marketing materials.
  • Collaborate with partner or affiliate channels to support concert attendance.

Media Relations

  • Maintain and grow media contacts across TV, radio, print, and online outlets.
  • Write and distribute press releases for each concert.
  • Secure radio, digital, and print coverage.
  • Research and pitch stories that align with media opportunities.

Business Management & Administration

  • Respond to ACO email and phone messages related to marketing and PR.
  • Report monthly progress at ACO Board meetings.

Compensation

  • $30 per hour
  • Contract position

Hours

  • Part‑time, flexible hours – expect to work about 8 hours per week.
  • Workload varies by concert cycle and communication needs
  • Some evening or weekend hours may be required for concerts or events

Location

  • Austin, Texas
  • Combination of remote administrative work and on‑site responsibilities at concerts and events

Desired Experience Level

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Highly organized and detail‑oriented
  • Comfortable working independently and collaboratively
  • Experience in donor relations, marketing, communications, or media outreach (preferred)
  • Familiarity with nonprofit organizations or performing arts environments (a plus)
  • Students, emerging professionals, or career‑transitioning applicants welcome

How to Apply

Send application materials to hiring@austincivicorchestra.org.

What to Include

  • Resume
  • Cover letter describing your interest, relevant experience, and availability

Deadline to Apply

November 1, 2026  

Questions or inquiries may also be directed to hiring@austincivicorchestra.org.