Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from SXSW
Job overview
The Director of Comedy at SXSW leads the vision, planning, and execution of the annual comedy festival, ensuring its strategic development and success.
Responsibilities and impact
The role involves overseeing festival planning and execution, booking and scheduling comedians, curating the program, managing contracts and communications, coordinating staff and volunteers, and reporting to leadership.
Experience and skills
Candidates need 7–10 years of experience in comedy or live entertainment, a strong network in the comedy community, proven event planning success, and strong administrative and communication skills.
Work environment and culture
The job is based in Austin, Texas with core office hours and requires availability for extended hours during the event, reflecting a dynamic and demanding festival environment.
Company information
SXSW is a premier comedy festival known for showcasing diverse comedic talent across various formats including stand-up, sketch, improv, and live podcasts.
Job location and travel
The position is full-time in Austin, Texas with core hours Monday to Friday and additional hours required during the festival period.
Unique job features
The role offers the unique opportunity to shape a major comedy festival's creative vision and collaborate across departments to deliver a unique festival experience.
Company overview
South by Southwest (SXSW) is a renowned annual conglomerate of film, interactive media, and music festivals and conferences held in Austin, Texas. Founded in 1987, SXSW has grown into a global platform for creative professionals to showcase their work, network, and explore new trends. The company generates revenue through ticket sales, sponsorships, and partnerships with brands seeking to engage with a diverse and influential audience. Notable for its impact on the entertainment and tech industries, SXSW has been a launchpad for numerous innovative projects and artists.
How to land this job
Tailor your resume to emphasize your extensive experience in comedy festival planning, talent booking, and event execution, highlighting your ability to manage complex logistics and production timelines.
Showcase your strong network within the comedy industry, including relationships with comedians, agents, and comedy clubs, as this is crucial for securing talent and partnerships at SXSW.
Apply through multiple platforms such as the official SXSW careers page, LinkedIn, and other job boards where the position is listed to maximize your application visibility.
Connect with current or former SXSW comedy division employees on LinkedIn using ice breakers like commenting on recent SXSW comedy showcases or asking about the festival's unique programming approach.
Optimize your resume for ATS by including keywords from the job description such as 'festival planning,' 'talent booking,' 'comedy curation,' 'budget management,' and 'stakeholder collaboration' to ensure it passes automated screenings.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, identify relevant job portals, and find LinkedIn contacts to network with, allowing you to focus your energy on preparing for interviews and refining your comedic vision.
Jennie Johnson works for you!
Here’s what we do to make sure you’re successful:
Targeted Resume Revamp:
We expertly craft your resume to navigate Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and showcase your qualifications, making you stand out as a top-tier candidate.
Job Description Dissection:
Unpack the job posting with expert analysis, ensuring your application hits every key requirement.
Bespoke Cover Letter:
Capture the attention of hiring managers with a personalized cover letter that highlights how your skills align perfectly with the job's needs.
Interview Mastery:
Prepare for interviews like a pro with likely questions, strategic answers, and insightful questions for you to ask, setting you apart as an informed candidate.
Direct Application Insights:
Receive tailored advice on the best places to apply, ensuring your applications are seen by the right employers.
Skills and Gaps Assessment:
Identify and close critical skills gaps to position yourself as the best-fit candidate for your ideal job.
Personalized Email Pitch:
Make a memorable first impression with an email template crafted to engage potential employers and initiate meaningful conversations.
In-depth Research Guide:
Leverage comprehensive research tools to gather effective insights on companies, industry trends, and role-specific challenges.
Detailed Company Analysis:
Gain in-depth understanding of your prospective employer, giving you the edge in applications and interviews.
Strategic Candidate Overview:
Understand your unique value and why companies would want to interview you, highlighting your background and positioning.