Director of Media and Public Relations
Working Title: Director of Media and Public Relations. Classification Title: Administrator II.
Posting Details
Priority Application Deadline: Sunday, April 26th @ 11:55pm PST (Posting will remain open until filled).
Position Summary
Under the general direction of the AVP of University Communications and working in close partnership with the President and the Chief of Staff, the Director of Media and Public Relations serves as a senior member of the university's communication executive leadership team and is the institution's primary spokesperson/Public Information Officer. Working closely with the Associate Vice President of University Communications and the University Communications team, the Director strategically positions positive news and facilitates proactive public relations that promotes Sacramento State as a vibrant, welcoming campus, an engaged community partner and an economic engine in the region and beyond. This executive‑level position is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive communications strategies that advance institutional priorities, protect and enhance the university's reputation, build Sacramento State's national brand as a recognized leader in academic excellence and student success, and ensure effective communication of university initiatives, achievements and emergency notifications. The Director initiates and scales positive relationships with media representatives to secure fair and accurate coverage, provides strategic communications counsel to the President and Cabinet, leads crisis communications and reputation management, and produces high‑quality professional communications materials. This role requires exceptional judgment, strategic vision, discretion in handling confidential matters, and the ability to operate at the highest levels of university leadership.
FLSA
Exempt (Not eligible for overtime compensation).
Salary
Anticipated Hiring Range: $8,334.00 per month – $10,000.00 per month, commensurate with the candidate's education, experience, skills, and training.
Department Information
The mission of University Communications is to raise awareness and build a positive perception of Sacramento State with local, regional, state and national audiences through news, stories, visuals and campaigns while boosting campus and community pride. As part of the Division of the President, University Communications is responsible for promoting and protecting the University. We oversee news and media relations, crisis communications, social media and multimedia, marketing and branding, and strategic publications.
Required Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations, or related field.
- Minimum of five years of progressively responsible leadership experience in media relations, strategic communications or equivalent role.
- Experience in executive‑level spokesperson roles such as Public Information Officer, crisis communications leadership, and strategic communications counsel to senior leadership.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Expert knowledge of strategic communications principles, media relations strategies and institutional positioning.
- Comprehensive knowledge of news media operations, editorial decision‑making processes and evolving media landscape.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to craft sophisticated messages for diverse audiences under pressure.
- Expert editorial judgment with mastery of grammar, spelling and composition; ability to produce polished, professional communications materials.
- Exceptional strategic thinking and analytical skills; ability to assess complex situations, anticipate implications and develop effective solutions.
- Ability to represent the university with credibility and authority in high‑stakes situations.
- Exceptional interpersonal and relationship‑building skills; ability to influence, negotiate and build trust with diverse stakeholders.
- Sound judgment and discretion in handling highly confidential, sensitive and legally complex matters.
- Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and social justice; ability to communicate effectively across diverse communities.
- Ability to thrive in high‑pressure environments, manage competing priorities and maintain composure during crises.
- Ability to lead and manage a team.
- Availability and commitment to respond to urgent matters outside normal business hours as required.
- Ability to travel to off‑campus locations as needed.
- Commitment to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive work environment with diverse colleagues and constituents including faculty, students, staff and members of the community.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations or related field.
- Experience working at the executive level in higher education, public sector or complex organizations.
- Experience managing a team in a unionized environment.
Documents Needed to Apply
Resume and cover letter. Failure to upload required documentation may result in disqualification.
Equal Employment Opportunity
California State University, Sacramento is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, genetic information, medical condition, marital status, veteran status or disability. Sacramento State hires only those individuals who are lawfully authorized to accept employment in the United States.
Background Check
Ability to pass background check.
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