Director, Strategic Communications & Media Relations

Details•Troy, NY

2d•$130,000 - $150,000

About The Position

The Director of Strategic Communications and Media Relations will lead how RPI shows up in the media and in the public conversation. This role is about shaping perception, building trust, and making sure RPI’s ideas, research, and people are part of the stories that matter. This role is responsible for elevating the Institute’s profile in top-tier national, global, and trade media through disciplined storytelling, agency management, strong editorial judgment, and trusted media relationships. Who we are: Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is the first technological research university in the United States. We bring creativity, science, and technology together to address society's greatest challenges. We cultivate exceptional problem-solvers by immersing them in a culture of rigorous inquiry, disciplined practice, and hands-on application. Our strategic plan, RPI Forward, charts a pioneering course for the next era of RPI. Explore the RPI Forward plan. ↗︎ Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, RPI is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world’s fastest supercomputers, and the IBM Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world. With top notch employee health and retirement benefits, Rensselaer offers its full-time employees a generous paid time off program, tuition remission, and opportunities for career growth.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in journalism, mass communications, or public relations
Seven (7) or more years related work experience
Applicants must meet stated minimum education and experience requirements.
A proven media relations leader with real press relationships and a track record of meaningful coverage
Excellent editorial instincts and strong writing skills
Experience leading media strategy in a complex organization
Comfort working with senior leaders, journalists, and external partners
Background in journalism, media relations, or strategic communications

Responsibilities

Set the direction for RPI’s media presence, with a sharp focus on reputation, relevance, and long-term impact
Build and maintain strong relationships with national, global, and trade media
Spot stories worth telling and turn them into smart, timely pitches that cut through
Write and shape media materials that are clear, confident, and newsworthy
Lead and manage RPI’s external PR agency, setting priorities, pushing for quality, and holding the work to a high bar
Work closely with senior leaders, faculty, and researchers to prepare spokespeople and position RPI effectively
Make confident calls in fast-moving or high-profile moments, balancing speed, accuracy, and judgment