Assistant Director of Media Relations

Job Summary: The Assistant Director of Media Relations will join a talented and innovative communications team. The role is largely responsible for pitching media to generate positive stories that continue to enhance the reputation of the College. Reporting to the Director of Media Relations, the Assistant Director is expected to work with journalists to obtain national placements for a range of content related to research, scholarship, programs, achievements, and initiatives, and assist faculty and staff in preparing for media interactions. Additionally, the Assistant Director will oversee media monitoring tools, continuously identify news trends, and deliver reports that offer insights about the College’s earned media efforts.
Essential Functions Assist the Director of Media Relations in executing a robust earned media initiative to enhance the reputation of the College.
Pitch national media outlets and develop relationships with national journalists to secure multiple placements for College announcements, research, stories, and opinions.
Develop media interview briefings for College spokespeople.
Create, maintain, and update an extensive database of media contacts.
Coordinate interviews and media events.
Respond to incoming media inquiries in a timely manner in collaboration with the director of media relations.
Review editorial calendars for relevant placement opportunities.
Collaborate on crisis communications as needed.
Identify timely ‘news hooks’ and work with subject matter experts to develop commentary for trending news cycles.
Generate reports for senior leadership that show measurable, data‑driven impact of earned media placements.
Manage relationships with local newspapers, broadcast, radio, and online media.
Facilitate content and copy for the "In The Media" section of the weekly newsletter.
Assist faculty in editing and placing op‑ed pieces in national, local, and industry media.
Position Qualifications Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in education and experience.
Minimum 1–3 years of work in public relations, media relations, or communications.
Excellent writing and oral communication skills.
Instinct for identifying stories and developing creative ways to tell them.
Ability to distill complex topics and communicate in a clear, compelling manner.
Strong command of language, grammar, and adherence to Colby style guidelines.
Attention to detail, high organization, and ability to thrive under deadlines, including occasional evenings and weekends.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to establish collegial relationships with staff, faculty, students, managers, and visitors.
Knowledge of social media platforms and media relations tools such as Cision and Muck Rack.
Hands‑on experience with WordPress or a similar CMS for managing the media coverage section of Colby News.
Experience with Meltwater, Qwoted, Asana, Business Wire, or PR Newswire.
Proven experience in podcast placement and training is a plus.
Physical/Mental Demands Regular use of a computer with keyboard and mouse; extended periods of sitting.
May involve lifting up to 10 pounds regularly, with occasional lifts of up to 35–50 pounds.
Visual tasks include seeing clearly at close and far distances and adjusting focus as needed.
Work environment is dynamic and requires strong organizational skills and the ability to manage shifting priorities.
Colby College supports the Americans with Disabilities Act and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

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