Senior Director of Media Strategy
About The Position
Berklee is seeking a savvy, data-informed, and well-connected Senior Director of Media Strategy to strengthen and safeguard the institution’s reputation. If you are a strategic storyteller with deep media roots and a passion for arts and higher education, this is a powerful opportunity to influence the global narrative of the world’s leading performing arts institution. At Berklee, your work directly supports the next generation of creative leaders. About the Role & Responsibilities Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Communications, this leader serves as a trusted advisor to senior leadership. You will design and run our global media strategy, managing everything from high-level brand positioning to real-time crisis response. This is a hybrid role (three days on-site in Boston) that requires a calm-under-pressure mindset and the ability to handle sensitive information with total discretion.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
- 7–10+ years of experience in media relations and issues management (higher-ed or arts/culture preferred).
- Current, proven relationships with Boston-area journalists and a track record of securing national/global coverage.
- Expertise in leading cross-functional crisis response and navigating high-risk situations.
- Exceptional writing and editing skills under tight deadlines.
- Fluency with media monitoring tools (like Cision or Mention) and social listening platforms.
- Availability for an on-call rotation for rapid response outside of standard business hours.
Responsibilities
- Develop annual and quarterly media plans that advance Berklee’s priorities across Boston, national, and global outlets.
- Identify and pitch high-impact stories featuring Berklee’s faculty, students, and alumni to influential voices in arts and culture.
- Lead cross-functional crisis and rapid-response workflows, drafting statements, FAQs, and internal guidance.
- Serve as an on-the-record spokesperson and provide media training and message discipline to deans and executives.
- Write and edit press releases, op-eds, and statements with speed and precision, ensuring brand consistency.
- Define and report on KPIs (sentiment, reach, and share of voice), translating data into actionable recommendations.
- Oversee media relations for major campus events, managing pooled coverage and asset approvals.
Benefits
- A mission-driven culture where your ideas matter and your impact is visible.
- A diverse and inclusive community committed to lifelong learning and collaboration.
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays, including a winter break, to support work-life balance.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance plans.
- Tuition benefits for you and your family, including free or discounted courses.
- Retirement planning with a 403(b) plan and matching contributions.
- Access to unforgettable performances, guest artists, and events.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
Number of Employees
1,001-5,000 employees
