The Media Relations Manager is responsible for telling the story of the people and programs at Hampton University on the world stage, delivering media strategies that enhance and protect brand awareness and support fundraising and other institutional goals. This role involves organizing and monitoring the strategy for maintaining relationships with media outlets, collaborating with relevant teams to write and distribute press releases, pitch reporters, media train subject matter experts, respond to media inquiries, and prepare talking points that enhance the university’s presence in the media. (S)/He will ensure that all press releases and media advisories are strategically pitched, consistent, reliable, and in compliance with industry standards and university brand guidelines. Other responsibilities include receiving, reviewing, and compiling weekly metrics reports as well as giving briefings on the progress of our media and communications campaigns.

Job Duties:

• Execute a comprehensive editorial strategy to promote the university’s mission, people, programs, and events.
• Work closely with internal departments to identify and promote newsworthy stories.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets.
• Serve as the primary contact for media inquiries and coordinate interviews, press conferences, and other media events.
• Write and distribute press releases, media advisories, and other communications materials that effectively tell the Hampton story.
• Manage crisis communication efforts and ensure timely and accurate information dissemination.
• Knowledge of marketing tools such as Sprout, Canva, SmugMug, Cision and Hootsuite.
• Proficient in writing and editing news release copy to AP stylebook standards.
• Track and analyze media coverage to gauge public sentiment and identify areas for improvement.
• Uphold industry ethical standards in all media relations activities.
• Ensure transparency and honesty in communication with the media.

Qualifications:  

• Comfort level driving action in ambiguous or evolving situations, processes new information quickly and adjusts strategies; accordingly, displays situational adaptability.
• Possesses professional maturity, sound judgment, good analytical skills and the ability to make quality decisions to protect the university’s reputation when necessary.
• Ability to be detail oriented with excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
• Ability to represent the Division or chair committees, councils, and task forces.

Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Print or Broadcast Journalism, Strategic Communications or a related field such as English, Public Relations or Marketing.
• 5 years of work experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Educational and/or professional experience at R1 University.
• Experience in technology driven environment.
• Direct experience working with non-profit, government, fundraising, and/or scientific audiences.