Senior Manager, Communications

Public Media Group of Southern California • Burbank, CA

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

PBS SoCal tells stories that matter through original programs that reflect the diversity of the region and the full schedule of trusted PBS SoCal programs. Our content channels are available for free on internet-connected screens, including six local broadcast channels and one national satellite channel. A donor-supported community institution, PBS SoCal sparks the sharing of ideas at in-person cultural events and community conversations as well as delivers social impact through services that prepare our most vulnerable children for school. The Senior Manager, Communications is responsible for the execution of communications activities including internal and stakeholder communications, media relations and events to support the initiatives of PBS SoCal and its brands. This position works collaboratively with the Marketing and Communications team to create and drive integrated marketing campaigns, and manages the work of the Communications Coordinator. The Senior Manager, Communications must regularly use independence and discretion in the execution of duties with limited supervision.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism or related field (preferred).
• At least 5 years of progressive experience in television marketing and publicity, or related field (a combination of education and experience will be considered).
• Must have a proven track record of strong communications skills, and innovative ideas that have resulted in increased audiences on all multi-media platforms.
• Must be highly knowledgeable in digital, on-air and social media cross-marketing.
• Must be an energetic, enthusiastic and positive team player that is able to self-motivate.
• Must have the ability to write clearly, concisely and ability to proof-read.
• Must have ability to work under deadline pressure at a fast pace.
• Detail oriented and extremely organized.
• Collaborative and entrepreneurial attitude.
• Demonstrate ability to multi-task and switch projects as needed.
• Willing to work evenings and weekends as needed.
• Ability to manage other people, projects and external agencies.
• Must live in the Southern California area and be able to attend local events and meetings.

Responsibilities

• Identifies key projects and initiatives (content, engagement, education, etc.) to support through media relations and executes campaigns to support those initiatives.
• Researching, writing, reviewing and editing a wide variety of press materials.
• Creates compelling and accurate messaging.
• Creatively pitching various content, company announcements and online initiatives to targeted media outlets.
• Exercising superior judgment and caution when posting on social media platforms tied to company initiatives with a goal of targeting key media.
• Manage spokespersons with message training during interviews.
• Manages inquiries from media, individuals and other organizations.
• Ensures media receives timely and accurate materials tied to campaigns.
• Drafts talking points for spokespersons (both internal and external).
• Maintains and updates information on organization's press sites.
• Assembles, analyzes and corrects (when necessary) media coverage.
• Manages/facilitates cross-promotional opportunities with partners around the city for opportunities where it makes sense to collaborate.
• Liaises with key spokespeople, producers, talent (and reps) as well as government officials.
• Builds relationships with external constituents including other PBS colleagues from around the country to build national communications efforts.
• Directs inquiries from outside the company to appropriate departments internally.
• Plays a key role in organizing media events that include press conferences, premieres, screenings, community events, awards and press tours.
• Fosters community relations through events and through partnerships in community initiatives.
• Pitches regional and national broadcast, print, and online press to attend.
• Plans event may include securing media, talent, panelists, hosts, etc.
• Devise and coordinates photo opportunities at events.
• Promotes KCET Cinema Series through weekly editorial articles.
• Develops Board messaging plan and drafts messaging for regular distribution.
• Works collaboratively with internal departments in order to manage information.
• Write and review corporate communications materials.
• Source, manage and draft remarks for executive speaking opportunities.
• Drafts internal company initiative announcement messaging.
• Provides direction, support, and supervision for the Communication Coordinator including training, coaching and development, and performance management.
• Manages work of the Communications Coordinator – including oversight of the internal Water Cooler newsletter and department interns, etc.
• Offers input and counsel on strategic integrated marketing plans and proactively executes against those plans.
• Plans, develop, and implement PR strategies.
• Secure programming assets that include trailers, clips, exclusive content, episodic art, etc. by working with producers and other departments at PBS SoCal.
• Provide timely reporting on active campaigns.
• Other responsibilities as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior