Media Relations Specialist

COUNTRY Financial•Bloomington, IL

About The Position

Protect and enhance the reputation of COUNTRY Financial through the development of a content strategy and external communication efforts. Supports corporate vision, mission and objectives through content planning, message development and delivery to ensure the right messages get to the right audiences using the appropriate medium based on best practices and which meet legal, compliance, brand and other standards. Ensures consistency of messages and alignment with corporate objectives and values. This role will also work in different media formats such as podcasts and social media content - this could include content development, production and editing of the podcast and social media posts.

Requirements

Typically requires 4+ years of relevant experience or a combination of related experience, education and training.
Proven experience leading external communications or public relations strategies that build trust, enhance brand reputation, and support organizational objectives.
Strong media relations and messaging expertise, with the ability to effectively tailor and deliver messages to the right audiences through the most appropriate channels.
Demonstrated ability to partner with executive leaders and cross-functional teams to plan and execute aligned, high-impact communications.
Excellent writing, editing, and storytelling skills with a focus on clarity, credibility, and brand consistency.
Experience creating producing, and editing content across multiple media formats, including podcasts, social media, traditional media, and other digital channels.
Experience in regulated, corporate, or service-driven environments; insurance or financial services experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Serves as spokesperson for the organization, handling contact with newspaper, magazine, radio, television, trade press and social media.
Trains leadership and other company spokespeople to deliver messages through various external communication mediums.
Actively monitors reputational threats and potential threats that could damage the reputation of COUNTRY and recommends strategies to manage them (i.e. reputation audits, proactive and reactive media responses, etc.).
Responsible for analyzing, recommending, developing and implementing news media strategies for the organization with a focus on our Vision and corporate strategies.
Supports corporate project teams as a Public Affairs and Media Relations representative.