Responsibilities

• Develop new media relationships and leveraging existing ones with broadcast and print media contacts, as well as freelance, online and blogger contacts. This is done through strategic pitching for all verticals (including leisure, meetings and conventions, sports and international) of story ideas and angles along with media tours, FAMs, site visits, frequent follow up with previous contacts and connecting through social media channels.
• Maintain the Media section of visitRaleigh.com with new information, media coverage, media lists, story ideas and images.
• Create and execute the GRSA PR Editorial Calendar.
• Create media materials and write news releases, story idea sheets, backgrounders, fact sheets, media advisories, video news release scripts, articles and pitches aimed at local, regional, national and international press and travel trade.
• Oversee basic design of domestic and international pitch sheets, sales sheets, press kit materials and other media assets as needed for pitching, tradeshows and representation.
• Coordinate on-site media visits, group FAMs, international media or any other on-site media visit or opportunity including hosting FAMs or writers in partnership with Visit North Carolina. NOTE: This often means escorting the journalists and/or meeting them for lunch or dinner and working at night and on the weekends as needed.
• Part of a team effort in organizing local media events that enhance the standing of tourism in the community or the unveiling of specific marketing efforts.
• Maintain internal media databases as well as tracking and measurement of earned media.
• Manage media/public relations portal and inputting content into organizational CRM software.
• Regularly communicate with Wake County hospitality partners on media opportunities, coverage received and assisting with any public relations efforts.

Requirements

• College degree in English, journalism and/or communications plus at least four years of experience in the field of public relations preferred. Prior PR agency or newsroom experience or having worked with a tourism organization in a communications or marketing capacity is preferred.
• Strong media relations experience and success in building relationships with business and consumer media.
• An understanding of the full array of communication tools and social media platforms available to reach a wide variety of audiences.
• Experience with media monitoring software programs (Muck Rack, Cision, Meltwater, etc.)
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Outlook and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of international tourism.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Working knowledge of AP Style is preferred.
• Ability to serve the public and fellow employees with honesty and integrity.
• Ability to organize and plan according to priority.
• Must be able to work independently and perform responsibilities with minimal supervision.