Assistant Director of Media Relations - (STA008631)

Assists the Director and Executive Director in the day-to-day management of an aggressive, pro-active media public relations program. Develops, reviews and edits communication materials prior to release to the media.

1. In collaboration with the Director and Executive Director, participates in the development and implementation of strategic communications and publicity plans for the university. Provides guidance to colleges, departments, key stakeholders and university leadership regarding media activities such as story pitches, op-ed placement and distribution of news releases.
2. Provides editorial guidance and edits for media relations representatives and strengthens the team working environment.
3. Writes, edits, and distributes news feature stories, op-eds and other requested communication materials to ensure effective coverage of university activities and initiatives. Manages assigned media and public relations campaigns in assigned areas and produces weekly, monthly reports to track campaign progress.
4. Brings out-of-the box ideas for positive publicity and placements, from ghost writing blogs and op-eds to polishing white papers.
5. Identifies and cultivates local, national and international media contacts as part of a proactive strategy to aggressively increase coverage of the university, its faculty and programs in support of UH strategic initiatives.
6. Supports and identifies faculty experts who will respond to media requests.
7. Prepares stakeholders/university leadership for media opportunities and/or other public speaking engagements by preparing talking points, speeches, testimonies or other remarks.
8. Performs other job-related duties as required.

EEO/AA

Additional Job Posting Information/Preferred Qualifications:

At least 5 years of experience in journalism or public relations positions.

Excellent writing skills. Demonstrated capacity to process complex material and produce clear, concise and engaging press releases, feature stories and other original content under deadline pressure.

Knowledge of AP style preferred.

Required Attachments by Candidate:
Resume, Cover Letter/Letter of Application, Writing portfolio with at least three samples of news articles, press releases or feature stories.

Qualifications :

Bachelors and 5 years experience

Requires a thorough understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of an analytical, technical or professional discipline; or the basic knowledge of more than one professional discipline. Knowledge of the discipline is normally obtained through a formal, directly job-related 4 year degree from a college or university or an equivalent in-depth specialized training program that is directly related to the type of work being performed. Requires a minimum of five (5) years of directly job-related experience.