Media Relations Specialist

Media Relations Specialist

Works with leadership 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. As a key media relations contact, this team member will also build networks with regional and national media contacts to increase coverage on key college programs and initiatives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• In collaboration with leadership, participates in the development and implementation of media activities
• Provides guidance to colleges, departments, key stakeholders and university leadership regarding media activities such as story pitches and distribution of news releases
• Provides editorial guidance, edits for media relations representatives, and strengthens the team working environment
• Writes, edits, and distributes news stories, media statements 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 and ad hoc reports to track campaign progress
• 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 Kennesaw State's strategic initiatives
• Supports and identifies faculty experts who will respond to media requests
• Prepares stakeholders and university leadership for media opportunities and/or other public speaking engagements by preparing talking points, speeches, testimonies or other remarks

Required Qualifications:

Educational Requirements Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education in a related field Required Experience Three (3) years of experience in Journalism, Broadcasting, Public Relations, Communication, or related field

Preferred Qualifications:

Additional Preferred Qualifications Advanced degree in a related field Previous experience proactively pitching the media Previous experience serving in a public information officer or similar role Previous experience in higher education

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

ABILITIES Able to handle multiple tasks or projects at one time meeting assigned deadlines Able to build relationships, work collaboratively and exhibit good judgment and diplomacy Able to work as a contributing member in a team-oriented environment, successfully interacting with internal and external colleagues and partners KNOWLEDGE Working knowledge of Associated Press Style and journalism principles and techniques SKILLS Excellent interpersonal, initiative, teamwork, problem solving, independent judgment, organization, communication (verbal and written), time management, project management and presentation skills Proficient with computer applications and programs associated with the position (i.e. Microsoft Office suite) Strong attention to detail and follow up skills Strong customer service skills and phone and e-mail etiquette

USG Core Values:

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kennesaw State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The University is committed to maintaining a fair and respectful environment for living, work and study. To that end, and in accordance with federal and state law, Board of Regents policy, and University policy, the University prohibits harassment of or discrimination against any person because of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment, pregnancy, and medical conditions related to pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, ethnicity or national origin, religion, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran or military status by any member of the KSU Community on campus, in connection with a University program or activity, or in a manner that creates a hostile environment for members of the KSU community.

Other Information:

This is not a supervisory position. This position does not have any financial responsibilities. This position will not be required to drive. This role is not considered a position of trust. This position does not require a purchasing card (P-Card). This position will not travel

Background Check:

Standard Enhanced Education Per the University System of Georgia background check policy, all final candidates will be required to consent to a criminal background investigation. Final candidates may be asked to disclose criminal record history during the initial screening process and prior to a conditional offer of employment. Applicants for positions of trust with screening results which confirm a disqualifying criminal history will be immediately disqualified from employment eligibility All applicants are required to include professional references as part of their application process. Some positions may require additional job-based screenings such as motor vehicle report, credit check, pre-employment drug screening and/or verification of academic credentials.