Newark Symphony Hall hires industry veteran Sabin as its first director of communications and social impact

Newark Symphony Hall, New Jersey’s largest Black-led arts and entertainment venue, has hired Chris Sabin as its director of communications and social impact, marking the second senior-level addition to the hall this year, according to a Monday announcement.

Just last month, Newark Symphony Hall announced Mack Graham as director of development, a role funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.

In his new role, Sabin will lead a team focused on developing and managing a community engagement program for Newark Symphony Hall.

Sabin brings with him over two decades of experience engaging people and advocating for better outcomes. His experience includes management roles at MTV Networks, UWG and Prime Access. Most recently, Sabin served as an independent marketing, events and talent consultant for clients including the NAACP for its Leadership Summit, National Convention and Image Awards.

“Chris’ vast knowledge and understanding of marketing communications, social engagement and community development are a welcomed addition to Newark Symphony Hall,” said Taneshia Nash Laird, Newark Symphony Hall’s CEO and president. “We’re excited to see how he will harness the hall’s value proposition and forge strategic partnerships across the city and region.”

Sabin’s department will focus on promoting the venue’s programming and producing public events, as well as overseeing Newark Symphony Hall’s job training and placement program, Symphony Works, including program content development and management of the overall promotion of workforce development activities.

“It’s a great time to be joining this important historic landmark institution in New Jersey’s largest city,” said Sabin. “It’s a dream come true to have the opportunity to create engaging partnerships and doing it not far from my home in South Orange.”