Responsibilities

• Research, develop, and write (concisely and clearly) story ideas promoting key messages to media, track national media for trend stories to which the university can contribute and cultivate and promote faculty experts. Frame pitches to journalists in ways most likely to resonate with their preferred approaches, writing style and beats. Build and nature relationships with reporters, editors, and producers at targeted outlets to help promote the faculty expert's national profile. (50%)
• Answer media requests and assign media calls as necessary to appropriate experts. Accompany media/ television crews on campus as necessary, including before and after regular business hours. Respond with sense of urgency to media requests, especially time-sensitive requests to interview university experts. Contribute to media relations¿ response to crises. (15%)
• Meet regularly with faculty leaders to become familiar with leading ideas and gather information about research and education activities that would be of interest to local and national media. Pursue developments likely to secure media attention and aligned with the associate vice president's strategic media approach. Build faculty expert contact lists, including cell numbers for time-sensitive media requests. (15%)
• Develop, produce, film and edit compelling video interviews with university faculty and researchers across diverse subject areas, managing the complete production cycle and ensuring timely upload to the Associated Press (AP) content portal for national distribution. (10%)
• In consultation with the associate vice president for media relations, develop plans and tactics to realize the goals of individual media campaigns and overarching strategic approaches. Establish discrete goals and timelines regarding execution of those plans and tactics; regular tally and report results to associate vice president. (10%)

Requirements

• Experience: 5 to 8 years of experience in journalism, communications, public relations, or related field.
• Education: Bachelor's degree required.
• Proficiency with word processing and web software.
• Computer proficiency (including Microsoft Office) and the ability to learn new programs.

Preferred

• Willingness to learn and work with artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.

Benefits

• Employees receive more than just a paycheck. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.