The University of Houston is currently seeking to hire a Sr. Media Relations Specialist. In this role, you will enhance the image and reputation of the university by coordinating media communications and providing counsel and guidance to administrators and faculty in assigned areas. You will support web and new media initiatives aimed at advancing the university’s Tier One goals and secure media placements in local, state, and national media outlets and publications.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Network with national and statewide media contacts, on-campus sources, and partner organizations to generate news stories and media opportunities about the University of Houston
- Coordinate media opportunities for UH Chancellor/President and other high-level administrators if requested
- Garner media coverage for assigned colleges and departments to promote the university’s Tier One initiatives
- Collaborate with deans, administrators, and faculty to stay apprised of newsworthy activities and provides communications support using various media
- Interview faculty and administrators and conduct research on related topics to develop news releases and articles
- Write, edit, and disseminate news releases and other articles to highlight research, programs, faculty and staff achievements and events of interest to internal and external audiences
- Develop content in support of web, social media, blogs, and multi-media initiatives
- Foster and maintain positive working relationships with representatives of key media outlets
- Coordinate and conduct press conferences and media availabilities
- Maintains press lists
- Mentor junior staff members, interns, and student workers
- Stay apprised of the news cycle to identify media opportunities for faculty subject-matter expert interviews
- Perform other job-related duties as assigned
REQUIREMENTS:
- Excellent editorial judgment as well as writing and editing skills (preference for candidates with proficiency using AP Style)
- Experience using media-monitoring software for media outreach and understanding the data to optimize performance, adjust strategy and create reports
- Exceptional proficiency in digital communication platforms and tools, with a proven ability to quickly adapt to and master new software applications for efficient workflow and collaboration
- Strong commitment to staying current with emerging technologies and trends in the digital communication landscape to ensure our strategies remain cutting-edge and effective
- Able to translate complex, scientific research to make it understandable and relevant to the public
- Bachelor’s Degree and seven years of directly related job experience
Special Note to Applicants: When applying for this role, please be sure to submit a cover letter, and writing samples along with your resume. One writing sample should be at least 500 words and one should be longer (at least 1,000 words). The policy of the University of Houston System and its universities is to ensure equal opportunity in all its educational programs and activities, and all terms and conditions of employment without regard to age, race, color, disability, religion, national origin, ethnicity, military status, genetic information, sex (including gender and pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or status, or gender expression, except where such a distinction is required by law.