Public Relations & Communications Manager Job at The University of Akron in Akro

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, and 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 the time) of a video display terminal.

Background Check Statement
The University of Akron is committed to providing a safe environment for all students and employees. The University endeavors to protect the health, welfare and safety of all students, employees and visitors on our campus. As such, all offers of employment with The University of Akron are contingent upon verification of credentials, and satisfactory completion of a criminal background check. Some positions may require additional credit investigation and a pre‑employment driving record search.

Non‑Discrimination Statement
The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution. View our Non-Discrimination Statement for more information. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.

State of Residence Statement
It is the expectation of the University of Akron that all work performed as an employee of the University will be performed in Ohio.

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