Media Relations Specialist

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in United States.

📋 Description

• Actively identifies and proposes storylines and experts to various media outlets.

• Responds promptly and accurately to media inquiries.

• Coordinates interviews and provides on-the-record responses.

• Creates and distributes press releases, media advisories, Q&As, OpEds, news articles, and story pitches.

• Ensures that public relations content is consistent with organizational messaging frameworks.

• Develops relationships with editors, reporters, influencers, and producers.

• Prepares media briefing documents and talking points.

• Develops and maintains comprehensive media lists.

• Assists in creating content for various communication channels.

• Aids in media training for university leaders and subject matter experts.

• Publishes public relations content on the DeVry newsroom platform.

• Prepares coverage reports and conducts daily media monitoring activities.

• Assists in implementing crisis communication strategies.

• Monitors emerging issues and provides support to senior leaders during high-pressure media situations.

• Collaborates with internal communications, marketing, social media, and other cross-functional teams to ensure consistent external messaging.

• Performs additional duties as assigned.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or a related field is required.

• A minimum of three to five years of direct experience in coordinating communications and media relations efforts, or working as a journalist or in a public relations agency.

• Established press contacts for securing media coverage.

• Proven success in obtaining earned media coverage.

• Experience in higher education is preferred.

• Ability to work effectively under deadline pressure and manage competing priorities.

• Documented experience in developing successful media relations plans.

• In-depth understanding of media relations strategies.

• Capacity to build strong relationships with journalists, reporters, bloggers, and editors.

• Familiarity with issues affecting higher education and for-profit institutions is preferred.

• Results-driven and dedicated to quality through ongoing process enhancement.

• Proficient knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook), as well as Meltwater or other media monitoring tools.

• Exceptional writing and communication skills, with proficiency in AP Style.

• Strong interpersonal skills, characterized by a positive and professional attitude; teamwork capabilities.

• Excellent project management abilities.

• Proactive, dependable, responsible, and precise, with a keen attention to detail.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

• Supportive and collaborative work environment.