Senior Public Relations Strategist

Basic Function

The Public Relations Strategist will work to publicize the University of New England with the goal of brand awareness and name recognition locally, regionally, nationally and globally. Under the direction of the Director of Communications and Public Relations, the Public Relations Strategist will find stories across the university’s campuses that tell the UNE story through print, broadcast, and digital news media. The Strategist will cultivate and maintain relationships with members of the local, regional, and national media, and they will research and write stories about UNE that enhance the visibility and reputation of the university and advance the overall mission of the Office of Communications. The Public Relations Strategist will also assist the Director of Public Relations in university crisis communications.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with faculty, professional staff, and administrators to ensure a positive and ongoing flow of communication. Draw on these relationships to learn about compelling stories within UNE’s colleges, departments and programs. Execute a media relations plan that integrates strategic planning goals and objectives and promotes UNE’s academics, research, activities, and programs. Cultivate and maintain productive relationships with writers and editors locally, regionally, and nationally. Proactively identify, pitch, and place stories in local, regional, and national print, broadcast, and digital outlets Respond to media requests for information and interviews Communicate news about special events, programs, and research via press releases Monitor local, regional, national and international news for stories involving the university or that may pertain to UNE and/or its programs Assist faculty and professional staff in writing or editing op-eds and provide training to faculty, professional staff members and students for both print and broadcast interviews Work collaboratively with members of the communications team to advance team objectives and communications and marketing campaigns Perform other communications duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, English, marketing, communications or related field required. Seven plus years of demonstrated success in journalism, public relations or communications. Established and productive media relationships and expertise in print, broadcast, and digital news media. Excellent writing skills and experience writing for print and digital platforms. Outstanding communication (written and oral) and interpersonal skills. Ability to develop strong collaborative partnerships and earn trust within the organization. Demonstrated ability to design and execute a strategic and successful public relations program that raises the profile of the university. Ability to successfully manage multiple projects simultaneously, to develop appropriate priorities, and meet strict deadlines. Flexibility to work occasional nights and weekends. Ability to effectively communicate university strategic decisions and messages to a variety of stakeholders. Must be a self-starter, energetic and strategic thinker with a passion for innovation, collaboration and team work. High level of discretion is required. Must possess a strong understanding of web technologies including social media.