MSU Extension Media & External Relations — Communications Manager II

MSU Internal Job Postings Details•East Lansing, MI

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) is seeking a Communications Manager II to lead its external relations and media activities. This role is crucial for informing the public and the University about the impactful work of MSUE, a large and complex organization with over 600 employees across 83 counties. The Communications Manager will be responsible for developing and executing organization-wide media strategy and external engagement activities. As part of a collaborative communications team, this position will enhance the visibility, credibility, and public impact of MSU Extension statewide and nationally. Reporting to the MSU Extension Director of Communications and Digital Strategy, the manager will implement organizational priorities for media engagement and strategic communications campaigns to increase awareness of MSUE's mission, programs, and impact. Key responsibilities include managing media inquiries, developing press materials and key messages, preparing leadership for media engagement, collaborating with stakeholders, and supporting major announcements. The role also involves contributing to high-impact storytelling, digital content, legislative materials, and impact-focused narratives. Additionally, the manager will provide guidance and training on media engagement and ensure all external communications align with MSU brand standards and organizational priorities. While negotiable, there is potential for the position to be based at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan. This position may be eligible for a flexible work environment, with an expectation to work from an MSU Extension office. The extent of flexibility depends on the individual's position, office location, needs, responsibilities, and opportunities. This is an off-dated position funded for one year from the date of hire, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in journalism, telecommunications, marketing, advertising, public relations, or related field.
Three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in public and media relations; composing, editing and publication production; news, broadcasting, and print media; and/or marketing, advertising, and creative services; graphic design; word processing; desktop publishing; web design; presentation; spreadsheet and/or database software; public presentation or radio production; or computer programming/technology.
Or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge of basic personal computer terminology and operations, and the ability to use e-mail and the internet.

Nice To Haves

Five to seven years of progressively responsible experience in communications, journalism, external relations, marketing/advertising, media relations, or a related field.
Experience using digital communications tools, such as external and/or media relations platforms (e.g., Cision or Meltwater), content management systems (such as dotCMS).
Familiarity with Microsoft Office and standard communications tools, including experience with design or multimedia tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite), preferred.
Proficiency in use of technology (e.g., web research, Zoom, Qualtrics, Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook for mail/calendaring, distance technology, etc.) for day-to-day work and educational program delivery, record keeping, reporting, team-based communications, and overall management.
Demonstrated experience in media and external relations and strategic communications, including developing and executing proactive media strategies.
Experience managing media inquiries, developing press materials, and positioning organizations with external audiences.
Experience supporting or aligning communications with government, legislative, or stakeholder relations efforts.
Demonstrated ability to translate complex or technical information into clear, accessible messaging for various audiences.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills, including experience with AP Style.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
Experience working with and advising organizational leadership on communications strategy or messaging.
Demonstrated ability to lead or influence cross-functional teams in a matrixed or decentralized organization.
Experience building and maintaining relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including media, partners, and community organizations.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, exercising sound judgement and decision-making in fast-paced or high-visibility situations.
Experience identifying and responding to emerging issues, reputational risks, or sensitive communications situations.
General knowledge of higher education, public sector, or Cooperative Extension systems preferred.
Understanding of community engagement and outreach and outreach best practices.
Demonstrated ability to develop messaging and communications materials for a variety of audiences and platforms.
Experience contributing to or supporting campaigns, reports, or large-scale communications initiatives.
Demonstrated commitment to communications practices that reach audiences representative of the populations served.
Ability to apply principles of culture, access, and belonging in communications strategies and materials.
Self-motivated with demonstrated ability to work independently in an office environment without daily supervision and/or coaching.
Ability to travel in local and surrounding communities, and occasional long-distance travel are required as a regular part of this position.
Demonstrated drive and initiative, with proven ability to manage multiple responsibilities and tasks simultaneously.

Responsibilities

Plans new strategies, campaigns, and external relations efforts for MSU Extension and advises other units on media and external relations issues.
Establishes policies and procedures related to the daily operation of external relations.
Develops promotion and marketing /news plans for the unit.
Develops specialized communications plans for other units as requested.
Coordinates special events.
Recommends web development and technology enhancements for the unit.
Plans, creates, produces, photographs, edits, records or drafts releases and feature materials for media and publications in order to inform the public and University of issues and events.
Identifies sources of information in research, reviews, and surveys in order to obtain information.
Negotiates rates and orders advertising for print, television or radio.
Designs and presents workshops on marketing, communications, and external relations strategies.
Develops and implements media relations strategies, including proactive media positioning, protocols, issues management, and reputational communication for MSU Extension in coordination with the Director of Communications and Digital Strategy and in partnership with University Communications and Marketing.
Advises MSU Extension leadership and institute teams on media approach, messaging, and risk.
Develops and implements proactive media plans to elevate MSU Extension’s visibility statewide and nationally, identifying story opportunities and pitching to key media outlets.
Partners with government and stakeholder relations staff to align legislative and external-facing communications with media strategy, public positioning, and organizational priorities.
Manages incoming media inquiries, triages requests, and coordinates timely, accurate responses across MSU Extension and with University Communications and Marketing.
Leads development and distribution of press releases, media statements, talking points, and key messages.
Ensures alignment with organizational priorities and external positioning.
Supports media planning and coordination for major events, announcements, and external-facing initiatives.
Partners with institute and program leadership to develop media strategies for high-priority initiatives, announcements, and emerging issues.
Collaborates across communications teams to align media strategy, coordinate outreach, and ensure consistent messaging across the organization.
Serves as primary liaison to University Communications and Marketing for media relations, ensuring coordination, alignment, and amplification of MSU Extension priorities.
Provides strategic input on digital content, and storytelling efforts to strengthen media visibility and public positioning.
Supports communications strategy for high-priority initiatives with an emphasis on media visibility and public impact.
Monitors media coverage, emerging issues, and reputational risks; synthesize insights to inform strategy and leadership decision-making.
Working collaboratively with MSU Extension communications team, develops and delivers media training for leadership and subject matter experts.
Provides functional leadership and direction for media-related work across the communications team.
Ensures all media-facing communications align with MSU brand standards and organizational messaging.
Contributes as needed to high-level messaging and narratives for impact reports, legislative materials, and organizational storytelling, ensuring alignment with media strategy and public positioning.
Other duties as assigned by supervisor.