Senior Public Relations Coordinator

YOUTH VILLAGES, INC.

12d • Remote

About The Position

For over 35 years, Youth Villages has transformed the lives of children and families nationwide through innovative, research-based programs focused on preserving and restoring families. As a national leader in children’s mental and behavioral health, we serve more than 47,000 youth, young people, and their families annually across 29 states and Washington, D.C. Our proven treatment models drive long-term success in child welfare, juvenile justice, and mental health systems. At Youth Villages, we do what works — partnering with others to expand our impact and advocate for meaningful, lasting change. We're seeking purpose-driven individuals who are passionate about making a difference. With a dedicated team of more than 5,000 staff, Youth Villages is committed to investing in and supporting our employees by offering opportunities to build a fulfilling career through professional growth, personal development, and a mission that matters— helping children and families live successfully. For more information, please visit www.youthvillages.org Position Overview: Under the general supervision of the director of public relations, the Senior Public Relations Coordinator for North Carolina and South Carolina spearheads various communications and public relations plans, programs and projects; conducts media relations; works to build local and regional awareness of Youth Villages among the general public and key stakeholder groups; with focus on PR planning and execution, event promotion, reputation management, campaigns, for the region. Supports digital PR strategy for Youth Villages alongside the digital communications team in helping to identify and engage with reporters, social influencers, etc. Acts as a connector for internal communications needs and employee engagement Performs other related duties as assigned or directed to meet the department's goals Works closely North Carolina and South Carolina leadership to meet business goals Works with the development department to support fundraising and awareness needs

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, or a related field (required)
• Three to five years of experience in public relations and/or communications (required)
• Proven track record of media success and existing relationships with North Carolina media outlets (required)
• Excellent written, verbal, and oral skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Ability to maintain a flexible schedule

Nice To Haves

• Strong media relations, communications planning, and event promotion experience (preferred)
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

Responsibilities

• Leads development and implementation of comprehensive, strategic public relations plans for Youth Villages and its various services, programs, and events
• Conducts strategic media relations in key markets to support overall organizational and departmental objectives; works with the news media both proactively and reactively; remains on-call 24/7 for journalists and crisis situations
• Stays apprised of situations in key markets, ensuring PR is conducted accurately, timely, within budget parameters, and in a way that supports operational goals
• Regularly evaluates the effectiveness of PR strategies and tactics, and reports on status of plans and results of work
• Stays apprised of issues affecting the organization (including competitor work)
• Conducts media training and coaches and prepares staff, families, and young people for news media interviews
• Creates media and communications materials such as news releases, news advisories, fact sheets, talking points, speaking points, press kits, etc.
• Conducts planning and execution of PR strategy for campaigns, programs and events, such as news conferences, training classes, ribbon-cuttings, groundbreakings, and fundraisers
• Ability to interview families and young people and write stories for various uses
• Ability to work collaboratively across various teams and departments to ensure integration and sharing of information
• Skilled writer with the ability to write copy, including PSAs, speeches, scripts, news releases, and communications materials; assists with editing and proofreading upon request; follows AP Style
• Works closely with digital strategy, as well as other Youth Villages departments and outside vendors as necessary, to ensure all programs and projects are successful, accurate, and timely
• Supports crisis communications as necessary alongside national communications team and state leadership
• Works closely with development team to identify opportunities to support fundraising efforts, events, volunteer and mentor recruitment and initiatives targeting key stakeholders
• Monitors Youth Villages coverage in the news media, including digital, preparing monthly reports; utilizes media monitoring and database software for tracking and media outreach
• Performs other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Prescription Drug Coverage and Vision
• 401(k)
• 2 week paid vacation (full-time) / 1 week paid vacation (part-time)
• 12 paid sick days per year
• 11 paid holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Mileage & Cell Phone Reimbursement (when applicable)
• Tuition reimbursement and licensure supervision
• Growth & development through continuous training
• Clinical and administrative advancement opportunities

What This Job Offers

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