Publicist

Responsibilities

• Work closely with the Global Head of Communications to develop and execute a robust day-to-day communications strategy that supports the newsroom.
• Develop and implement communications / PR strategies that amplify Semafor’s high-impact reporting, editorial projects, and newsroom initiatives.
• Proactively identify editorial moments, trends, or news cycles where our reporting and talent should be part of the media conversation
• Maintain an always-on awareness of the competitive media landscape to spot gaps and opportunities for coverage.
• Cultivate strong relationships with national TV and radio/podcast bookers, and maintain segmented, up-to-date media lists.
• Pitch booking producers across major broadcast networks and platforms (including TV, radio, and podcasts/YouTube) daily, working closely with newsroom leaders and journalists to promote scoops and impactful journalism
• Draft talking points, briefings, and internal messaging for internal and external communications, including writing and editing media alerts on deadline.
• Secure daily press coverage across television, radio, print, and digital outlets for a wide range of coverage areas.
• Support development and implementation of a creative and consistent internal communications strategy.
• Lead and manage a global calendar of awards submissions, media lists, and speaking opportunities.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in communications, preferably at a news organization, in media/entertainment/politics or other similar work environments.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent is preferred.
• Deep passion for news and current affairs with broad understanding of the current global / U.S. news/media environment is a must.
• Proven ability to garner media attention, craft stories, and drive daily results.
• Previous experience booking network appearances for individuals/brands, and interacting with reporters on daily inquiries and media requests.
• A team player with the ability to work with others in a fast-paced news environment on deadline.
• A strong sense of what makes a good feature or news angle, and a varied contact list across the media landscape, including broadcast, print and online, with contacts in news in the US and globally
• Impeccable writing skills with the ability to write and produce clear and concise communications materials under time constraints.
• Previous experience with using PR & social media tools (e.g., Critical Mention, Muck Rack, Mailchimp, Twitter) is a plus
• Experience with handling set-up and logistics for speaking engagements and events.

Benefits

• Semafor offers a Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) policy to our full-time, salaried employees who may take paid time off as-needed without a prescribed limit or defined balance.