About the position
The Thomas Jefferson University communications team is seeking a dynamic media relations professional to join its team. This individual will bring with them a strong track-record in media relations, and direct experience in the ever-shifting world of higher education and eager to play a help shape earned media and employee engagement strategies that bolster Thomas Jefferson University’s brand reputation among both internal and external audiences. This matrixed position comes at a unique time in the University’s trajectory, under the leadership and vision of Dr. Susan Aldridge, and will collaborate closely with department colleagues in functions such as internal communications, marketing, creative services, and social media teams, as well as stakeholders throughout our growing university. The candidate selected will utilize leadership skills in critical areas such as University media relations, rankings, special projects, events, and owned content strategies. The ideal candidate will be a highly skilled communicator and relationship builder with a strong understanding of the media landscape and a proven ability to manage projects in a complex, matrixed organization.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute comprehensive public relations strategies and campaigns aligned with Thomas Jefferson University’s overall goals and objectives.
- Supervise University media relations and internal communications staff.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with reporters and editors (print, broadcast, and digital) and other key stakeholders.
- Write and distribute compelling press releases, media advisories, pitches, and other public facing materials.
- Draft responses to media inquiries in a timely and professional manner.
- Proactively identify media opportunities and pitch stories to relevant outlets.
- Monitor media coverage and analyze results, providing regular reports and insights.
- Support issues management and crisis communications related to the University.
- Collaborate with internal communications, social media, and marketing teams to ensure consistent messaging and integrated campaigns.
- Stay up to date on industry trends, media landscape changes, and competitor activities.
- Develop and maintain media lists and expert resource database.
- Working with Corporate Communications, develop University-focused internal communications initiatives.
- Measure and evaluate the effectiveness of PR campaigns using appropriate metrics.
- Support photography and event coverage.
- Write speaking points for spokespeople for special events.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Strategic Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or related field (Master’s preferred).
- 8+ years of communications and supervisory experience.
- Higher Ed experience preferred.
- Demonstrated success securing positive media coverage in healthcare, academia, or insurance sectors preferred.
- Exceptional communication, facilitation, and influence skills.
Benefits
- Competitive pay
- Health and retirement benefits
- Life and disability insurance
- Paid time off
- Educational benefits
- Financial and mental health resources
