Publicist

Semafor•New York City, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Publicist helps manage the day-to-day operations of Semafor’s communications efforts, working closely with journalists and editors to amplify the newsroom’s journalism and support other core areas of the business. Reporting to the Global Head of Communications, the role develops and executes communications strategies, identifies opportunities to bring Semafor’s reporting and talent into the media conversation, and secures coverage across broadcast, print, and digital outlets. It also supports internal communications, manages awards and speaking-opportunity calendars, oversees media monitoring, and improves communications workflows. The position is based in New York, NY, and requires flexibility to work flexible hours and travel domestically and internationally as needed.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience in communications; experience at a news organization or in media, entertainment, politics, or a similar environment is preferred.
Deep interest in news and current affairs, with broad understanding of the global and U.S. news and media environment.
Demonstrated ability to garner media attention, craft stories, and deliver daily results.
Experience booking network appearances for individuals or brands and responding to reporters’ inquiries and media requests.
Ability to collaborate as part of a team in a fast-paced news environment and work to deadlines.
Strong judgment about compelling features and news angles, and a varied media contact list across broadcast, print, and online outlets, including U.S. and global news contacts.
Excellent writing skills and ability to produce clear, concise communications materials under time constraints.
Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
Proactivity and resourceful problem-solving skills.
Willingness to work flexible hours and travel domestically and internationally as needed.
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is preferred.

Nice To Haves

Experience using PR and social media tools such as Critical Mention, Muck Rack, Mailchimp, and Twitter.
Experience handling setup and logistics for speaking engagements and events.

Responsibilities

Work with the Global Head of Communications to develop and execute a day-to-day communications strategy supporting the newsroom.
Develop and implement PR strategies that amplify Semafor’s reporting, editorial projects, and newsroom initiatives.
Identify editorial moments, trends, and news cycles where Semafor’s reporting and talent should be part of the media conversation.
Monitor the competitive media landscape to identify coverage gaps and opportunities.
Cultivate relationships with national TV, radio, and podcast bookers and maintain current, segmented media lists.
Pitch booking producers across broadcast networks and platforms, including TV, radio, podcasts, and YouTube, in coordination with newsroom leaders and journalists.
Draft talking points, briefings, and internal and external messaging, and write and edit media alerts on deadline.
Secure press coverage across television, radio, print, and digital outlets.
Support the development and implementation of internal communications strategy.
Manage a global calendar of awards submissions, media lists, and speaking opportunities.
Oversee media monitoring and compile timely press recaps and reports using PR tools.
Recommend and implement workflows and processes to improve the effectiveness and speed of the communications function.
Handle setup and logistics for speaking engagements and events.