Storytelling and Media Relations Specialist

JOB SUMMARY:

The Storytelling and Media Relations Specialist is a multifaceted role that combines the discovery and development of compelling stories with robust media relations responsibilities. The specialist will identify and craft narratives that highlight the positive experiences of our alumni, faculty, staff, and students, thereby enhancing the university's brand and supporting recruitment and engagement efforts. Additionally, the role involves maintaining effective working relationships with media professionals and providing counsel on media relations, ensuring that all communication objectives are met. This role requires strong writing, communication, and interpersonal skills, along with an understanding of media trends and audience engagement.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Identify and source impactful stories by engaging with alumni, faculty, staff, and students.
• Conduct interviews and in-depth research to gather authentic narratives that highlight positive outcomes and experiences.
• Write, edit, and format stories for multiple platforms, including social media, news releases, video scripts, websites, printed publications, and direct marketing materials.
• Develop and maintain a dynamic reservoir of stories, tagging and archiving content for easy retrieval by team members.
• Provide advice and guidance to key members of the University community on strategies for effective media relations and storytelling.
• Serve in an editorial capacity for SVSU's alumni magazine, including involvement in production, story development, and content writing.
• Remain in regular contact with members of the news media and internal stakeholders to ensure that significant University developments are communicated effectively.
• Serve as the primary liaison with the news media, cultivating and maintaining effective working relationships.
• Write and/or approve University news releases and media advisories.
• Respond to media inquiries in a timely and professional manner, ensuring the accuracy of information about the University.
• Develop and oversee a system to track media coverage of the University, establishing procedures to inform designated members of the University community about the coverage received.
• Stay informed about current events, industry trends, and audience preferences.
• Supervise and train student employees and temporary staff involved in media relations tasks.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

General supervision is received from the Vice President of Communications.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

N/A

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a closely related field.
• Minimum five years' experience in public relations, storytelling, or content development.
• Proven track record in crafting engaging narratives across multiple media platforms and managing media relations functions.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with strong interviewing and research abilities.
• Experience and knowledge with A.P. writing style.
• Proficiency in digital content management, including tagging and archiving processes.
• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships with media professionals and internal stakeholders.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the capability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn new software quickly.
• Experience and ability to positively interact with all members of the campus community.
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodations.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in higher education is preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Duties are generally performed inside and not exposed to adverse conditions.
• Occasional travel and event attendance may be required.
• All work associated with this role must be performed within the state of Michigan.