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Senior Media Relations StrategistLocation: Memphis, TN | Hybrid, 2–3 days onsite per week
Overview
Develop media relations strategies that generate earned coverage, strengthen public awareness, and support fundraising communications. This role combines independent pitching and press writing with stakeholder counsel, agency coordination, and support for sensitive media inquiries. Work spans regional, niche, and national media and multiple communications channels.The standard schedule is 8 a.m.–5 p.m. CST. Occasional regional travel is required, and flexibility outside standard hours may be needed for events or business needs. Advance notice will be provided whenever possible, with work schedules adjusted accordingly.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute media relations plans, identify relevant reporters and outlets, build media lists, and develop compelling story angles.
- Build reporter relationships and secure regional, niche, and national earned coverage through proactive outreach.
- Write and edit news releases, holding statements, executive remarks, PR plans, fact sheets, media briefs, messaging, talking points, and coverage summaries using AP Stylebook guidelines.
- Organize press conferences and media events, coordinate interview logistics, and support media training.
- Advise internal and external stakeholders on media strategies across platforms, manage expectations, and coordinate concurrent initiatives.
- Respond to media inquiries and support issues management and crisis communications with careful, timely messaging.
- Monitor relevant news and coverage, analyze earned media results, and communicate findings and recommendations to communications leadership.
- Manage PR agency and media monitoring vendor relationships, including onboarding, deliverables, feedback, campaign coordination, and reporting.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams and external partners to deliver accurate, timely communications.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations, or a related field.
- 5–7 years of experience in journalism, public relations, or marketing communications.
- Strong journalism and public relations knowledge, including news writing, editing, AP style, and building media relationships that generate coverage.
- Excellent verbal and written communication, with strong command of English spelling, grammar, and usage.
- Strong organization and project management skills; ability to follow complex instructions, manage multiple priorities, and sustain attention to detail.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs.
- Knowledge of photography, including taking and selecting impactful photographs.
- Ability to meet the Memphis hybrid schedule, travel regionally on occasion, and provide reliable transportation for designated work assignments.
- Ability to perform work involving walking, standing, sitting, lifting up to 40 pounds, and repetitive use of hands, arms, and feet to operate office equipment and record information.
- Ability to hear and visually observe while retaining details, and to coordinate media events and implement PR plans requiring sustained concentration.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in fundraising public relations with a global reach.
- Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.