Manager, Media Relations

Emerson College•Boston, MA

19h•Onsite

About The Position

The Manager, Media Relations is a key member of the college’s Marketing and Communications team, developing and executing proactive media relations initiatives and campaigns and strategic communication plans in support of the team’s overarching goals and objectives. This work will support and enhance the college’s reputation and promote the college, including its leadership, faculty and staff, in support of the college’s vision and mission. The position focuses heavily on media relations and strategic storytelling across new and emerging media - inclusive of digital and traditional platforms - including news outlets, websites, social media influencers, podcasts, Substacks/newsletters and online and in-person events.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or related field required.
Minimum 5 years of experience in media relations, public affairs, strategic communications or as a multimedia journalist or producer required.
Experience with crisis communication and issues management required.
Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills; demonstrated ability to write engaging and persuasive content.
Proven ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
Exceptional writing skills and attention to detail.
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Ability to produce high-quality work under short deadlines.
Proven ability to exercise high levels of discretion and sound judgment.
Highly responsive to inquiries.
Proficient with Google docs, sheets and slides.

Nice To Haves

Experience with higher education or nonprofit communications preferred.
Experience at an agency or in a newsroom preferred.
Photo journalism and/or video journalism skills.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary contact for media inquiries.
Develop and maintain relationships with local, state, national, international and trade media reporters, editors and bookers.
Draft press releases, media advisories, and statements.
Monitor media coverage and prepare regular reports on impact and reach.
Update and maintain press lists and key materials including boilerplates, FAQs, talking points, key messages, and photos.
Collaborate with the AVP for Institutional Communications to implement communication strategies aligned with college priorities.
Support crisis communication planning and response.
Ensure compliance with brand standards and messaging guidelines.
Create compelling, pitchable stories highlighting the college’s leadership in the creative fields and amplifying the innovative teaching and learning, faculty work, student and alumni excellence and success, and events.
Source and coordinate with faculty thought leaders for timely expert commentary and interview opportunities.
Supervise interns as assigned.
Work closely with faculty, staff, and communicators across the college to ensure consistent messaging.
Provide communication support for college events, and initiatives.
Manage media on-site at events.
Act as a “body person" for leaders, as needed, at events.
Act as the daily point-of-contact for the college’s agency/s of record.
Other duties as assigned