Inside Higher Ed is hiring: Director of Media Relations in Atlanta

The University System of Georgia (USG) is comprised of 26 higher education institutions and the University System Office.

Director of Media Relations

Location: USO-TW Building ATL

Regular/Temporary: Regular

Full/Part Time: Full-Time

Job ID: 263606

Job Summary

The Director of Media Relations reports to the Vice Chancellor for External Affairs and serves as a member of the Communications team.

Responsibilities

• Provide media relations expertise, respond to media inquiries, proactively pitch stories and serve as System Office spokesperson on matters as deemed appropriate.
• Prepare articles and press releases for the media.
• Provide help with crisis communications within the System Office as well as for USG institutions.
• Draft talking points for senior leadership team.
• Research topics and, as needed, draft speeches.
• Establish and maintain ongoing network of media relationships and contacts.
• Provide suggestions for media coverage of the University System as well as for USG institutions.
• May serve as a communications expert on various systemwide projects and strategic initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in public relations, journalism, communications or related discipline and seven or more years of job-related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in media relations or higher education communications at a USG institution preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in written communication to executives and subject matter expert audiences.
• Skill in collaborating with multiple constituents.
• Skill in decision-making and problem-solving.
• Skill in interpersonal relations and in dealing with the media and the public.
• Ability to respond diplomatically to sensitive and critical issues.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple demands and to meet strict deadlines.
• Ability to analyze information and identify trends in data.
• Ability to summarize complex information and data.
• Knowledge of Board-level governance, functions, relationships, and history.
• Knowledge of current trends in higher education.
• Knowledge of federal and state laws, rules and regulations impacting higher education.
• Knowledge of Board of Regents policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of University System of Georgia ethics policy.
• Knowledge of AP Style.

Conditions of Employment

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check, verification of credentials and employment history, and a satisfactory credit check if applicable. Offers are subject to applicable federal and state laws, the Board of Regents policies, and the University System of Georgia by‑laws and policies.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University System Office is an equal employment, equal access, and equal educational opportunity, and affirmative action institution. It is the policy of the University System Office to recruit, hire, train, promote and educate persons without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status as required by applicable state and federal laws.

Senior Level and Job Details

Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Marketing, Public Relations, and Writing/Editing

Industries: Online Audio and Video Media