Manager, Publicity

Job Description

Founded in 1984, Def Jam Recordings has represented the cutting-edge in hip-hop music for more than 35 years. Def Jam began as a maverick independent label inspired by downtown New York City’s vibrant street culture and the emerging sound of hip-hop, pioneered by iconic stars like LL Cool J, Slick Rick, The Beastie Boys and Public Enemy. Over the following two decades, Def Jam established its dominance with superstar acts like Jay-Z, DMX, Ja Rule, Method Man & Redman, Ludacris, Rihanna, Jeezy, and the inimitable Kanye West. Now in its fourth decade, Def Jam’s music and lifestyle has grown into a global brand – synonymous with creativity, quality and authenticity – encompassing a diverse roster of marquee and emerging stars like West, Justin Bieber, Alessia Cara, Logic, Pusha T, Jadakiss, Vince Staples, Jeremih, Big Sean, YG, 2 Chainz, Dave East, and Jhene Aiko, among others. Today, Def Jam has reaffirmed its passion for and commitment to hip-hop culture, and has expanded its global brand reach to become the most-followed major label on all major social media platforms.

How we LEAD:

Def Jam Recordings is seeking a Publicity Manager with ideally 3-5 years of experience in the entertainment/music industry. This individual should also ideally have broad musical interest across genres, preferably hip-hop and R&B. The position requires a self-starter who can work both independently and within a team environment. Ability to independently problem-solve and organizational skills are a must. Working under the department head of publicity, the candidate will be involved in aspects of PR campaigns for Def Jam releases.

How you’ll CREATE:

• Spearheading PR campaigns for select releases from inception through release date and beyond, including formulating PR plans, outreach/pitch to national and regional media outlets, with an emphasis on tour press
• Write press releases/monthly round-up of classical and catalogue releases
• Gathering press materials from international rep centers and organizing for U.S. office including photos, bios, tour dates and more
• Uploading materials including bios, press releases and photos to internal organization sites
• Manage monthly mailings of product to classical priority list
• Maintaining up-to-date clip files/links electronically
• Maintaining press database - updating contact information and mailing lists for various genres
• Preparing/providing detailed press reports to other managers, artists and colleagues in the U.S. and Europe – interact with international colleagues
• Partnering with department head on additional publicity campaigns - compiling press kit materials, leading press mailings, overseeing distribution of monthly releases to press, creating promo schedules and escorting artists to press appearances
• Managing tools, mailings, etc. for outside PR representatives who we engage to work campaigns on our behalf, work with outside PR reps to inform them and keep them abreast of changing timelines, additional tools, etc.
• Additional PR department duties including invoice processing and booking artist travel

Bring your VIBE:

• 3-5 years of experience in the entertainment/music industry (Hip-Hop/R&B music insight is a plus)
• At least 1-2 years prior management experience
• Computer savvy, writing, social media
• Entertainment experience
• Public relations experience
• Organizational and leadership skills

Perks Playlist:

• Competitive Compensation Package including Salary, Benefits and Generous 401k Savings Plan with company matching
• Flexible Paid Time Off plus Paid Holidays, 2 week “Winter Break” & Wellness Fridays (year-round)
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Student Loan Repayment Assistance & Tuition Reimbursement (after 12 months of service)
• Robust Employee Assistance Program (for you and your loved ones
• Annual Well-Being Allowance which includes Fitness, Travel, Home Enhancements, Nutrition, and Spa Treatment Reimbursements

Universal Music Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All UMG employees are currently required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or provide proof of a negative PCR or Antigen test before entering any Company offices unless they have been approved for an exemption or unless prohibited by applicable law.

Disclaimer: This job description only provides an overview of job responsibilities that are subject to change.