Chief Communications and Content Officer

at  Whitney Museum of American Art

The Chief Communications & Content Officer (CCCO) plays a pivotal role in shaping the Whitney Museum’s brand, voice, and public presence. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer and working closely with the Director, the CCCO leads the strategy, positioning, messaging, and creative direction that elevate the Museum’s profile, amplify its impact, and safeguard its reputation on a global stage.
Partnering with senior leadership, the CCCO envisions and executes integrated, multichannel communications strategies that support the Museum’s ambitious goals for brand visibility, audience growth, and stakeholder engagement. This leader transforms complex ideas into compelling narratives that resonate with a wide breadth of audiences and stakeholders, while navigating some of today’s most significant cultural conversations with clarity and purpose.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in strategic communications or a related field (advanced degree preferred), with 15+ years of senior-level experience in strategic communications, brand management, or a comparable role.
• Expertise: Proven track record in leading multi-channel communications, managing creative or iconic brands, and articulating a vision that aligns with strategic priorities.
• Core Skills:

• Exceptional storytelling, presentation, and writing abilities.

• Skilled public speaker who can navigate both creative and results-driven- environments.

• Experience managing high-stakes, time-sensitive issues.

• Fluency in digital and social media platforms with measurable success in multi-channel campaigns.
• Qualities:
• Intellectually curious, with a strong interest in contemporary art and culture.
• Team player, entrepreneurial thinker, and innovative problem-solver.
• Collaborative yet decisive, with a knack for inventive ideas and strategic execution.
• Additional Considerations: Prior experience in museums or arts-related / cultural field is advantageous but not required. The role requires occasional evening and weekend work and is primarily based on site at the Museum, with limited travel as needed. Out-of-state applicants are encouraged to apply.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement sophisticated and comprehensive communications strategies to advance the Whitney’s mission and strategic priorities.
• Storytelling Acumen: Craft and share impactful stories that connect with audiences across digital and traditional platforms, from general audiences, to artists, to thought leaders.
• Team Collaboration: Oversee three core departments—Museum Communications/Public Relations, Digital Content, and Graphic Design/Brand Creative—to ensure seamless, synchronized, and synergistic delivery of the Whitney’s communications efforts. Collaborate hand-in-glove with the Chief Marketing Officer to develop campaigns that amplify the brand and attract new audiences.
• Cross-Functional Impact: Partner with senior leadership to help design internal communications that foster an inclusive and informed organizational culture.
• Agility in Action: Lead with decisiveness and creativity, especially in time-sensitive situations, ensuring messages are timely, thoughtful, and aligned with the Museum’s values.
  As a member of the Strategic Planning Group (SPG) of senior staff, the CCCO helps drive coordinated strategies for institutional advancement. This role is integral to translating organizational goals into actionable, inspiring communications that elevate the Museum’s profile and activities, from its exhibitions to its education programs, while maintaining confidentiality and communication timelines.
  The CCCO is an exceptional communicator, critical thinker, dynamic connector, collaborative leader, and peerless executor who brings insight, creativity, and precision to every aspect of their work, ensuring the Whitney’s voice and brand remain bold, relevant, and impactful at every touchpoint.

SKILLS NEEDED FOR THE ROLE INCLUDE:

Strategic Communication and Vision. Demonstrated expertise in crafting and implementing innovative communication strategies that align with Whitney’s objectives, ensuring consistent messaging across all channels while addressing emerging trends and evolving stakeholder needs.
Attuned to Global Dynamics. Understanding of global and local cultural, political, and economic trends and their implications on cultural institutions, our artists, and institutional messaging, including with internal employees. Ability to craft communications that resonate with and drive participation by varied audiences and demographics while maintaining relevance across cultural contexts.
Issues Management. Experience in developing and executing crisis communication plans to protect and enhance reputation. Skilled at responding to complex and sensitive situations with pace, transparency, agility, poise, and professionalism.
Digital and Social Media Proficiency. Expertise in leveraging digital and social media platforms for brand storytelling and audience growth and development. Strong knowledge of emerging technologies, channels, and trends to enhance the Whitney’s online presence and engagement.
Data-Driven Decision Making. Ability to analyze customer data and campaign performance metrics to inform strategy and enhance future communication efforts. Skilled at leveraging data-driven insights to realize measurable outcomes.
Adaptability to Media Landscape Changes. Experience navigating the evolving media landscape, including but not limited to leveraging new content distribution platforms, successfully engaging with a variety of media outlets, and deftly addressing disinformation. Demonstrated ability to remain flexible and innovative in response to shifts in media consumption patterns.