Media Relations and Public Affairs Manager

Department: NUQ Marketing
Salary/Grade: EXS/8

The Media Relations and Public Affairs Manager supports Northwestern University in Qatar's (NU-Q) visibility and reputation through the execution and coordination of media engagement, relationship management, and dissemination of institutional narratives.

This role contributes to the implementation of NU-Q's communications priorities by ensuring that academic achievements, research initiatives, and institutional activities are accurately represented across external media and internal communication channels.

Working in close coordination with leadership and internal stakeholders, the role supports executive communications, media outreach, and institutional reporting within established communications frameworks and guidelines.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the execution of media strategies aligned with NU-Q's communications objectives and institutional priorities
• Maintain and coordinate relationships with journalists, editors, and media stakeholders across Qatar, the region, and internationally
• Assist in engagement with government, diplomatic, and external stakeholders, as required
• Draft and distribute press releases, op-eds, media kits, and statements in coordination with internal stakeholders
• Monitor and compile media coverage, preparing regular reports and summaries
• Coordinate incoming press queries and interview requests
• Support leadership visibility through coordination of media placements and opportunities
• Collaborate with the content team to deliver consistent institutional storytelling outputs
• Assist in preparing briefing materials, background research, and talking points
• Maintain media databases and tracking tools
• Coordinate with partner entities to support aligned outreach efforts
• Ensure adherence to NU-Q editorial standards and brand guidelines

Team Collaboration

• Contribute to a collaborative, high-performing team culture grounded in accountability, trust, and shared purpose.
• Participate in regular team meetings and workshops.
• Support documentation, processes, and shared resources to strengthen continuity and institutional knowledge.

Other duties, as assigned by the Assistant Dean and senior leadership

Minimum Qualifications (education, experience, certifications, skills)

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, or related field.
• 5-7 years of experience in media relations, preferably in higher education or a knowledge-based sector.
• Demonstrated success in securing media coverage
• Strong writing, editing, and communication skills
• Understanding of local, regional, and global media landscapes
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with attention to detail and professional judgment

Preferred Qualifications (Education, Experience, Certifications, Skills)

• Preferred Master's degree in Journalism, Integrated / Strategic Communications, Public Relations, or related field
• existing network of media contacts in Qatar and the region
• Experience in a multicultural or academic environment
• Familiarity with media monitoring and analytics tools
• Knowledge of Education City ecosystem
• Strong editorial judgment and understanding of media best practices

The target budgeted salary for this position is $70,020 to $90,260 annually. Offers will be based on candidate experience and education, as well as equity within Northwestern University.


Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement . Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process .


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