Strategic Media Relations Manager

About the Role The University of Southern California (USC) is one of the world’s leading private research universities. Situated in the heart of Los Angeles, USC is home to 23 academic schools and units, and is the region’s premier institution for the arts, athletics, business, engineering, law, sciences and technology. University Communications seeks a Media Manager to join the USC Media Relations team within the central University Communications office. Charged with enhancing USC’s reputation for world‑class research and education, the USC Media Relations team tells the compelling stories of our students, scientists and medical professionals who are making a difference in Los Angeles and the world. Responsibilities Develop, organize, and implement standards, procedures, and best practices for media relations activities; assist in developing and coordinating the implementation of media policies and response protocols; communicate updates and procedural changes in a timely and accurate manner. Manage day‑to‑day responses to inbound media inquiries, including those involving sensitive or complex issues; draft and edit statements, talking points, Q&As, and media responses in coordination with internal stakeholders; ensure messaging accuracy, consistency, and alignment with institutional priorities; build and maintain relationships with journalists, editors, and media outlets. Coordinate interviews, briefings, and media engagements for university leaders and subject‑matter experts; provide preparation support for spokespersons, including message development and interview readiness. Monitor media coverage and social media conversations to identify emerging issues; flag potential risks and recommend response strategies; support crisis communications and rapid‑response coordination as needed, including participation in after‑hours or weekend rotations. Collaborate with communications colleagues across schools and units to ensure aligned messaging and effective coordination; contribute to proactive storytelling efforts by identifying and pitching newsworthy stories that elevate USC’s reputation. Maintain systems for tracking media inquiries, coverage, and outreach efforts; organize and update digital records, ensuring effective transfer, retention, and disposal of files in accordance with policies. Research, gather, and synthesize information to support media responses, reports, and strategic recommendations; prepare summaries, briefs, and materials for leadership review. Support the management of resources related to media operations, including vendor coordination, technology needs, and project budgets; review and approve expenditures within established limits and monitor fiscal activity as required. Act as a liaison between Media Relations leadership, internal partners, and external media; communicate assignments, priorities, and special requests; monitor the status of pending items and follow up to ensure timely completion. Required Qualifications 3 years of experience and Bachelor's degree in Media Studies, Public Relations, Communication, or Journalism. Demonstrated experience in media relations within a complex organization. Thorough knowledge of media engagement practices, news cycles, and attribution standards. Excellent written and oral communication skills, with strong editing and drafting media material abilities. Excellent interpersonal skills to build effective relationships with reporters and internal partners. Strong organizational and analytical skills to manage multiple priorities in fast‑paced environments. Ability to exercise sound judgment in assessing developing news and determining response needs. Knowledge of digital communication tools, social media platforms, media monitoring systems, and related technologies. Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism. Experience working with multiple stakeholders and supporting communication strategies across decentralized teams. Preferred Qualifications Higher education experience preferred. Compensation The annual base salary range for this position is $110,000 – $115,000. Equal Opportunity Employer The University of Southern California is an Equal Opportunity Employer #J-18808-Ljbffr University of Southern California