Communications & Operations Specialist

JOB DESCRIPTION | Communications & Operations Specialist

Stulberg International String Competition

Job Title: Communications & Operations Specialist

Organization: Stulberg International String Competition

Reports to: Executive Director

Class: Part-Time | Non-Exempt | 25 to 30 hours per week

Salary Range: $26,000 to $32,000

Position Summary

The Stulberg International String Competition seeks a proactive, organized, productive, and passionate individual to join its administrative team. Reporting directly to and working closely with the Executive Director, the Communications & Operations Specialist executes and manages the Stulberg’s annual marketing and communications plan, including social media campaigns, advertising, public relations, and press releases. They also supports general operations and logistics including database management, data tracking, volunteer coordination (in collaboration with the Stulberg Competition Committee), sponsor and donor coordination, and venue coordination. Occasional coordination with visiting guest artists will provide an opportunity to build connections and relationships with talented, outstanding string musicians from all over the world.

The Stulberg’s ‘high season’ is generally mid-March to mid-May, culminating in an annual Competition weekend in mid-May. This position plays a critical role in the successful planning and execution of the annual Competition. Increased working hours are likely during this period; the slower summer season typically allows for some flexible time in compensation.

The ideal candidate will be comfortable working independently, possess strong interpersonal communication skills, be extremely detail-oriented, and exhibit a positive, collaborative work ethic. This position will regularly interact with the Stulberg’s Board of Directors and is required to attend meetings with the Resource Development & Communications and Competition committees. A background in classical music or related arts fields is not required; an appreciation for youth education and the arts is strongly encouraged.

The Stulberg operates with a hybrid model of in-office and remote work. This position will be required to work in person at the Stulberg Office in downtown Kalamazoo’s Epic Center at least two days per week. Regular working hours in the daytime are encouraged. Evening and weekend hours will be occasionally required, especially during Competition events.

The ideal start date for this position is between June 15 and 30, 2026, but is flexible based on availability.

Primary Responsibilities

Marketing & Communications (60%)

· Collaborate with the Executive Director to build the annual marketing and communications calendar

· Partner with the Executive Director and Resource Development & Communications Committee to coordinate the development and implementation of sales and marketing plans

· Develop and maintain relationships with media, community partners, donors, and artists

· Execute and manage various advertising and social media campaigns

· Organize and maintain database of advertisers, sponsors, and prospects

· Prospect and secure new, creative sources of print and digital advertising

· Prepare competition program book content and assets for submission to Graphic Designer

· Serve as primary liaison with contracted Graphic Designer and Printer partners for special projects

· Maintain the Stulberg website and make timely updates as needed

· Other duties as assigned

Operations (40%)

· Plan and manage venue logistics for the annual competition in coordination with the Executive Director

· Support the Executive Director in the annual screening process, event planning, and educational outreach

· Maintain Customer Relationship Management (CRM) database, Kindful, and oversee acknowledgement processes

· Partner with the Competition Committee for volunteer coordination

· Manage visiting guest artist itineraries and assist with transportation as needed (occasional evening and weekend hours required)

· Answer and respond to office phone calls and the info@ email inbox as needed

· Ensure the Stulberg Office remains organized and stocked with supplies

· Other duties as assigned

Key Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree (or relevant practical experience) preferably in marketing, communications, and/or arts administration

· Outstanding interpersonal and organizational skills

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills and comfort in initiating conversations

· Demonstrated ability to balance multiple projects, meet deadlines, and communicate effectively in a flexible and fast-paced environment

· Diplomacy in handling sensitive and confidential information

· Familiarity and confidence with Microsoft Office Suite and Google Suite

· Basic familiarity with CRM software (Kindful/Bloomerang) and Acceptd, or demonstrated capacity to learn

· Proven success in sales and/or fundraising activities preferred

· Experience in basic graphic design (Canva) preferred, or demonstrated capacity to learn

· Background in and/or appreciation for youth education and the performing arts

· Availability for a primarily in-person work schedule

If you are concerned that you don’t meet all the above qualifications but are passionate about the position, please still apply. The Stulberg is committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible workplace. We encourage you to submit your application if you are excited about this opportunity.

Compensation & Benefits

This position’s salary is commensurate with experience and reflective of an agreeable weekly schedule, with a range of $26,000 to $32,000. This position is eligible for participation in the Stulberg’s SIMPLE IRA retirement plan, including an employer match of up to 3%., and is not eligible for health benefits. Additional benefits include paid time off and parking in the Epic Center’s garage structure.

To Apply

To apply for this position, please submit a cover letter outlining your specific experience and qualifications, and a resumé in PDF format. Applications and questions may be submitted to Dr. Garret Jones, Executive Director at gjones@stulberg.org. For best consideration, please apply by May 1, 2026. Applications will be considered until the position is filled. No phone calls. Employment offers are contingent on completion of a background check.

The Stulberg International String Competition is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Stulberg is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation, and related medical conditions), national origin, disability status, marital status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Candidates from all backgrounds and walks of life are encouraged to apply. Additional information about the Stulberg can be found at stulberg.org.

About the Stulberg

Mission: To nurture the growth of exceptional young string musicians.

Vision: To deepen community engagement while offering a premier string competition.

Founded in 1975 by Esther Stulberg in memory of her late husband Julius Stulberg, the Stulberg International String Competition has continued impacting the lives of young string musicians from all corners of the world for over 50 years. Through Julius’ legacy as a renowned violin teacher at Western Michigan University and conductor of the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra, 12 Semifinalists under the age of 20 are selected each year to travel to Kalamazoo for the annual competition in May. Awards include medal prizes, over $20,000 in cash prizes, and solo performance opportunities with many American orchestras. The competition welcomes a live audience and broadcasts to distanced viewers via livestream, making the competition a highly anticipated event for our growing networks of patrons and supporters.

Pay: $26,000.00 - $32,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person