The Assistant Director of Public & Media Relations is the chief source for information about Millikin University and is responsible for telling the University’s story to enhance the Millikin brand by creating high-quality content such as news releases, feature pieces, articles, and other written materials.
This role is responsible for the planning, execution, analysis, and continual improvement of a comprehensive, proactive, and outcomes-driven media and public relations plan that enhances Millikin University’s visibility, reputation, relationships, and resources. The outcomes of these efforts will demonstrate increased awareness and interest of the University. The Assistant Director of Public & Media Relations is also responsible for assisting in managing emergency and crisis communications plans and activities. The position's scope of influence is both University and community wide. Success in this position necessitates skills in writing, communication, leadership, and collaboration with constituents across marketing and media, campus, and community. The Assistant Director’s schedule includes working evenings and/or weekends when necessary.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Writes and produces content for news releases, feature stories, articles, media advisories, alerts, and other written media relations materials
- Yields high-quality media coverage for the University by proactively developing and maintaining relationships and opportunities with local and national media
- Stays apprised of Millikin events and activities both on- and off-campus to identify and pursue opportunities for appropriate media coverage
- Develops and implements a comprehensive media relations plan at the local, regional, state, and national level
- Creates and maintains the news section of millikin.edu (millikin.edu/news)
- Organizes press conferences, media tours, interviews, and other events and activities to promote Millikin's academic programs, initiatives, and news
- Serves as key media relations contact and provides communication support during crisis and emergency events
- Collaborates with appropriate University offices to develop media strategies to advance the Millikin brand
- Monitors Millikin's presence in traditional, online, and social media outlets through the use of media tracking software (Cision)
- Creates and publishes student achievements on the University website
- Provides communication support for administrators, faculty, staff and students
- Tracks current events and higher education issues to explore opportunities for media placements and university collaboration
- Attends and participates in appropriate conferences, events, and networks to establish significant positioning in the community and represent the University
- Works independently and as a productive collaborator of the Marketing & Media Relations team
- Responds to tight deadlines and works on multiple projects simultaneously
- Assists the communications team with special projects and departmental initiatives, performing other work-related duties as assigned.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: This position does not have supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.
QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to succeed in a result-driven professional organization. Maintaining professional performance, demeanor, team-approach and focus on results while working under pressure in a dynamic environment
Minimum Education and/or Experience:
- Excellent writing, editing, interviewing, and networking skills
- Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, English, or another related field
- Minimum three years’ professional experience in media relations or related communication field
- Ability to work independently on projects and collaborate as a strong team member
- A high degree of creativity, initiative, and integrity
- Willingness to stay up to date with emerging trends in media relations
- A confident, professional, and positive attitude
- Sound organizational skills
- Excellent attention to detail
- Excellent knowledge of public relations and strategic communication principles and best practices
- Ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously and with precise execution