Public Relations & Communications Manager

University of Akron•Akron, OH

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Oversee day-to-day media operations, public communications, and incident response strategies. Performing as a tactical, hands-on manager and lead operational workflows, safeguard the University’s reputation, and direct communications.

Requirements

Requires a relevant Bachelor's Degree preferably in public communications, marketing, journalism.
On-call 24/7 to assist in handling emergencies and crisis communications.
Valid Drivers License.
Requires a minimum of 4 years of experience in media relations, public affairs, or communications with demonstrated experience managing team workflows or project lifecycles.
Proven success in building relationships with journalists and securing media placements in both regional and major markets.
Hands-on experience managing and growing professional social media channels, with a strong portfolio of LinkedIn content creation and audience engagement.
Experience navigating crisis communications, rapid-response messaging, or highly sensitive public-facing issues.
Exceptional writing and editing skills under tight deadlines, with the ability to pivot quickly between proactive PR storytelling and reactive issue management.

Nice To Haves

Mastery of media monitoring, social media management, and analytics tools (e.g., Meltwater, Sprout Social, LinkedIn Campaign Manager).
Existing network within the Northeast Ohio media landscape.
Ability to navigate complex institutional structures and establish trust with diverse campus stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Oversee day-to-day media relations operations, including pitching stories, responding to inquiries, coordinating journalist interviews, and securing positive coverage for the university.
Manage the university’s professional social media presence, specifically developing and executing a content strategy for LinkedIn to promote institutional wins, research breakthroughs, and faculty achievements.
Act as a key point of contact and operational lead during sensitive or high-stakes situations, deploying real time-response communications.
Supervise the drafting, editing, and distribution of press releases, media advisories, and public statements, ensuring high quality and brand consistency.
Collaborate with internal departments to identify newsworthy developments, translate complex academic or operational updates into compelling public narratives, and manage campaign timelines.
Oversee the monitoring of media coverage, LinkedIn engagement metrics, and public sentiment; prepare regular performance reports and situational briefs for leadership.
Responsible for directing and monitoring the work of student and/or temporary workers.

Benefits

medical
dental
vision
short and long-term disability
life insurance
paid leave of absences including time off for illness, vacation, and maternity or paternity leave
tuition remission
Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA)
state retirement systems
alternative retirement options with competitive employer contributions
deferred compensation programs (403(b) and 457(b)