REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)
Project Title: DEADCENTER FILM FESTIVAL STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS & MEDIA SPECIALIST
Issued By: deadCenter Film Festival
Date Issued: February 12, 2025
Submit Proposal: Feb 28, 2025
Notification Date: March 5, 2025
Start Date: March 7, 2025
End Date with Reports Due: June 30, 2025
OVERVIEW AND IMPACT: The Strategic Communications & Media Specialist executes deadCenter Film Festival’s (dCFF) public relations strategy to promote and generate favorable media coverage surrounding the annual festival the upcoming 2025 Annual Film Festival and the 25th Anniversary Celebration.
This role works in partnership with the Communications Committee to increase regional and national awareness, drive attendance (ticket sales), and elevate dCFF’s profile. The successful candidate will oversee outreach efforts, organize press activities, and act as the primary liaison for filmmakers, press, and VIP talent to ensure the smooth execution of all PR-related activities before and during the festival. This is an opportunity to create and implement high-impact PR campaigns and media outreach strategies for dCFF 2025 and beyond.
PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Press Coordination & Outreach
● Develop and execute outreach strategies to engage local and national media outlets.
● Serve as the primary contact for all press inquiries, VIP talent, and filmmaker PR before and during the festival.
● Organize and manage press tours for Oklahoma-based films during their early rollout.
● Distribute comprehensive film lists to press, including key information (e.g., synopsis, cast, crew, runtime).
● Research and develop new media contacts, maintain and update press databases and media lists.
● Identify and pitch media opportunities for print, online, and broadcast (TV, radio). ● Assist in the management and distribution of digital film screeners.
2. Press Conference & Event Management
● Plan and execute all aspects of festival press conferences.
● Strategize and coordinate press opportunities for tentpole films (e.g., Opening Night, Closing Night), ICONS, juries, free programming, and other high-profile events.
● Oversee press activities at festival venues and special events, ensuring coverage aligns with festival goals.
● Organize ticket requests and event invitations for press.
3. Filmmaker Engagement
● Collaborate with the Programming Team to develop and execute individualized and thematic promotional strategies for films.
● Facilitate filmmaker promotions and provide PR support to visiting filmmakers.
● Organize press opportunities for incoming filmmakers in the Press Room at The Hub.
● Generate press notes and media kits for press screenings.
4. Press Room Management
● Oversee day-to-day operations of the Press Room, including scheduling interviews, podcasts, and other press activities.
● Manage press interactions with VIP talent and filmmakers in The Hub.
● Track, compile, and record all press coverage for assigned films, guests, and programs during the festival.
5. Media & Communications Strategy
● Write and issue media correspondence, including press releases, media alerts, and promotional copy.
● Write talking points for dCFF staff introductions prior to film screenings.
● Assist with website copywriting, proofing, and updating as needed.
● Actively participate in meetings and brainstorming sessions with the team.
6. Reporting & Documentation
● Create and manage a PR form to collect required information from filmmakers for the Programming Team.
● Deliver monthly PR engagement reports via Google Docs and submit a final comprehensive PR report by June 30, 2024.
● Produce and distribute necessary PR informational documents and printouts.
QUALIFICATIONS:
● 10+ years of proven experience in PR and press coordination, preferably in the film or entertainment industry.
● Strong relationships with media outlets and industry press nationwide.
● Expertise in event planning and execution.
● Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
● Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to take initiative and manage projects from start to finish.
● Exceptional ability to be proactive, manage details, and multitask in a fast-paced environment.
● Ability to meet deadlines and anticipate next steps or needs.
● Strong working knowledge of email marketing applications and social media platforms.
● Familiarity with Google Docs and PR reporting tools.
● Ability to work independently as well as part of a team. ● Other duties as assigned.
TO APPLY: Email a letter of interest and resume to connect@deadcenterfilm.org indicating STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS & MEDIA SPECIALIST in the subject line.