Description

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

      Establish and maintain relationships with East Texas local media, Dallas-Fort Worth metro media, regional outlets, statewide media, and selected national and trade outlets.

      Develop, write, and pitch stories that promote student success, faculty achievement, research impact, institutional progress, and community contributions.

      Develop and maintain faculty expert placements in regional, state, and national media.

      Field, assess, coordinate, and respond to media inquiries in a timely, accurate, and strategic manner.

      Write, edit, and distribute media advisories, press releases, statements, talking points, briefing materials, and other earned media communications.

      Write short news stories, briefs, feature items, and related public-facing content for university channels.

      Coordinate with the Communications and Editorial Manager on story development, editorial standards, and message alignment.

      Coordinate with Texas A&M System communications colleagues as appropriate on systemwide initiatives and media opportunities.

      Assist with press conferences, media availabilities, interview logistics, executive media preparation, and emergency/public information support as assigned.

Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

      Education: Bachelor’s degree in journalism, public relations, communications, marketing, English, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

      Experience / Knowledge / Skills: 

o   Four years of related experience in media relations, journalism, public relations, strategic communications, or a related field.

o   Strong writing, editing, verbal communication, and proofreading skills.

o   Knowledge of media relations practices and the evolving media landscape.

o   Strong interpersonal, planning, and organizational skills.

      Ability to:

o   Ability to write clearly for journalists and the public.

o   Ability to work independently, manage multiple deadlines, and exercise sound judgment in sensitive situations.

      Licensing/Professional Certifications: None

      Physical Requirements: None

      Other Requirements: None

PREFERRED EDUCATION/SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

      Experience in higher education or another mission-driven organization.

      Experience securing earned media placements and building reporter relationships.

      Experience writing in Associated Press style.

      Experience supporting crisis communication, public information, or emergency communications.