Public Relations & Communications Manager

Job Summary

Oversee day-to-day media operations, public communications, and incident response strategies. Performing as a tactical, hands‑on manager and lead operational workflows, safeguard the University’s reputation, and direct communications.
Essential Functions

PR & Media Management:

Oversee day-to-day media relations operations, including pitching stories, responding to inquiries, coordinating journalist interviews, and securing positive coverage for the university.
LinkedIn & Social Media Strategy:

Manage the university’s professional social media presence, specifically developing and executing a content strategy for LinkedIn to promote institutional wins, research breakthroughs, and faculty achievements.
Crisis Communications:

Act as a key point of contact and operational lead during sensitive or high‑stakes situations, deploying real‑time response communications.
Content & Editorial Oversight:

Supervise the drafting, editing, and distribution of press releases, media advisories, and public statements, ensuring high quality and brand consistency.
Campaign & Project Coordination:

Collaborate with internal departments to identify newsworthy developments, translate complex academic or operational updates into compelling public narratives, and manage campaign timelines.
Media Tracking & Insights:

Oversee the monitoring of media coverage, LinkedIn engagement metrics, and public sentiment; prepare regular performance reports and situational briefs for leadership.
Education

Requires a relevant Bachelor’s Degree preferably in public communications, marketing, journalism.
Licenses, Certifications & Requirements

On‑call 24/7 to assist in handling emergencies and crisis communications. Valid Driver’s License.
Experience

Requires a minimum of 4 years of experience in media relations, public affairs, or communications with demonstrated experience managing team workflows or project lifecycles. Proven success in building relationships with journalists and securing media placements in both regional and major markets. Hands‑on experience managing and growing professional social media channels, with a strong portfolio of LinkedIn content creation and audience engagement. Experience navigating crisis communications, rapid‑response messaging, or highly sensitive public‑facing issues. Exceptional writing and editing skills under tight deadlines, with the ability to pivot quickly between proactive PR storytelling and reactive issue management.
Preferred Skills

Mastery of media monitoring, social media management, and analytics tools (e.g., Meltwater, Sprout Social, LinkedIn Campaign Manager).
Existing network within the Northeast Ohio media landscape.
Ability to navigate complex institutional structures and establish trust with diverse campus stakeholders.
Leadership

Responsible for directing and monitoring the work of student and/or temporary workers.
Physical Requirements

Job is physically comfortable; individual is normally seated and has discretion about walking, standing, etc. May occasionally lift very lightweight objects.
Working Conditions

Standard working environment with possible minor inconveniences due to occasional noise, crowded working conditions and/or minor heating/cooling or ventilation problems. Near continuous use (>70%) of a video display terminal.
Legal & Policy Statements

All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal background check.
The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.

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