Manager, Public Relations

University of Maryland Global Campus • Adelphi, MD

55d • $90,000 - $100,000

About The Position

The Manager, Public Relations, plans and manages integrated communications efforts to shape the public perception of University of Maryland Global Campus, serving as a key enabler for the institution's media relations, issues management, and online reputation management functions. Reporting to the Senior Director, Public Relations, this role requires a strong understanding of the news media and social media landscapes; experience working directly with reporters and developing and implementing integrated communications plans that employ a variety of channels and tactics; and basic familiarity with the use of media monitoring tools and generative AI tools in a communications environment. The ideal candidate will possess strong writing and project management skills; sound judgment in managing sensitive issues; and the ability to successfully execute complex assignments with minimal supervision.

Requirements

• 4-year college degree
• 5 to 7 years of continuous experience with a PR agency and/or an in-house communications team in a matrixed organization
• Demonstrated familiarity with contemporary external communications practices and considerations, including media relations and communications planning
• Strong writing and editing skills, and the ability to produce high-quality written communications on deadline
• A demonstrated ability to manage direct interactions with members of the media, including both pitching and reacting to inquiries
• Familiarity with media monitoring and social listening practices
• Familiarity with and interest in using generative AI tools in a communications environment
• Discretion in dealing with sensitive topics and a keen barometer for reputational risk
• Strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to perform in both individual and collaborative settings, including working directly with senior executives
• The ability to quickly digest complex information
• Strong attention to detail

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with Meltwater, Cision, Sprout Social, other media relations and/or social media management software
• Familiarity with issue management and/or crisis communications practices

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute integrated, cross-channel public relations plans mapped to specific institutional business and reputational outcomes.
• Manage proactive media outreach and routine reporter inquiries, collaborating with the Senior Director to evolve a global media relations strategy.
• Develop press materials, Q&As, talking points, media statements, and other supporting materials for both proactive and reactive communications efforts; support strategic management of content for the brand's digital newsroom.
• Conduct media monitoring and online reputation monitoring efforts in support of both proactive PR efforts and issue/crisis management, assisting with analysis and reporting for leaders.

Benefits

• Generous Time Off: Enjoy 22 days of paid vacation, 15 days of sick leave, 3 personal days, and 15 paid holidays (16 during general election years). For part-time employees, time off rates will be prorated based on the number of hours worked.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access to health care, medical with vision, dental, and prescription plans for both individuals and families, effective from the 1st of the month following your hire date.
• Insurance Options: Term Life Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, and Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance. Part-time employees working less than 0.5 FTE are not eligible for LTD.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Available for medical and dependent care expenses.
• Retirement Plans: Choose between the Optional Retirement Program (ORP) or the Maryland State Retirement and Pension System (MSRPS).
• Supplemental Retirement Plans: include 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and various Roth options. The university does not provide matching funds.
• Tuition Remission: Immediate availability for Regular Exempt Staff. Spouses and dependent children are eligible for undergraduate tuition remission after two years of service. NOTE: For part-time employees (at least 50 percent of the time), tuition remission benefits are prorated.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Industry: Educational Services
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees