Communications Assistant; US Fairs

Communications Assistant (US Fairs)

Location:

New York

Reports to: Director of Communications and Special Projects, New York

Role Overview
We’re seeking a highly organized, efficient and proactive Communications Assistant to support the delivery of press and internal communications across The Armory Show and EXPO CHICAGO. The role reports to the Director of Communications and Special Projects based in New York and is focused primarily on the two US fairs, with occasional support for Frieze’s wider fairs and initiatives as needed.
Familiarity with communications workflows and tools—including media monitoring, databases and digital platforms—is essential, along with a working knowledge of the visual arts and media landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate editorial calendars, press event schedules, and media contact lists
• Support the planning and execution of press campaigns, from brainstorms to distribution
• Coordinate press materials including releases, briefing notes, press packs, and images
• Take the lead on tracking media coverage and compiling PR reports
• Manage the administration of media accreditation and guest lists for events
• Support the scheduling of regular internal meetings, including preparing agendas and action logs
• Act as first point of contact for the shared US press inbox, triaging requests as needed
• Liaise with journalists and image libraries to fulfil press and image requests
• Maintain an organized archive of clippings, press releases, image assets, and internal materials
• Assist in preparing e-press packs and other event collateral
• Monitor daily media coverage, flagging key stories or mentions
• Manage department subscriptions and contact databases
• Proofread and check communications materials before distribution
• Help build and maintain relationships across the industry, including with media, partners, and stakeholders
• Stay informed on developments across the cultural and media sectors relevant to the role

Onsite Support (The Armory Show, EXPO CHICAGO, and Frieze US fairs)

• Provide hands‑on support during fair weeks including press desk operations and logistics
• Assist with media check‑in, press tours, and on‑ground troubleshooting
• Support internal communication needs during the fair (team briefings, distribution of materials, meeting coordination)
• Organize and help manage delivery of press packs, images, and accreditation materials onsite
• Capture and record key press and stakeholder interactions for follow‑up

Knowledge and Experience

• Some previous experience of working in a communications team or related field
• Art world experience or knowledge would be desirable

Skills and Abilities

• High attention to detail
• Excellent communications skills
• Ability to manage your time well and comfortable working to tight deadlines
• Team player who is able to work towards a shared goal
• An interest in the media and/or art criticism would be desirable

Our Diversity & Inclusion Statement

Frieze unites people in our love of the arts. We understand this can only be accomplished when we harness the entirety of our company and lead with a lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion in everything we do. As a global company that drives culture, we are committed to practicing anti‑discrimination, including race, gender identity, sexual orientation, and disability, together with artists, writers, and cultural practitioners from all backgrounds.

There is still much work to be done to address systemic inequality and discrimination within the arts and culture industry, and we are dedicated to making progress to both within our own organization and the art world at large.