Communications and Media Relations Specialist

The Communications and Media Relations Specialist has primary responsibility for developing strategic communications plans and writing content for news stories, releases, feature articles, institute communications, policy communications and crisis/issues communications.
The Communications and Media Relations Specialist will work within Oklahoma State University’s Department of Brand Management using writing and editing skills to enhance the university’s brand and reputation and help implement OSU’s strategic marketing and communications plan, which includes media relations, promoting the university’s strategy, aligning with OSU system communications teams and reputation management.
This individual will enhance OSU’s reputation with key internal and external audiences through their strategic communication skills.
The individual should demonstrate self-direction, creativity and strategic thinking in finding new opportunities to showcase Oklahoma State University.
KEY DUTIES: Develop communications plans and write and edit content for publications, magazines, policy communications, university transdisciplinary institutes and for issues and crisis communications.
Contribute to media relations efforts via writing, media monitoring, research and reporting.
Assist with strategic communications and editorial planning and ensure message consistency across channels and platforms.
Advance university messaging platform related to the university’s We Are Land-Grant strategy.
Maintain thorough knowledge of individual assignments, related schedules and deadlines.
Complete special projects or contribute to unit-based expertise to campus-wide projects as assigned.
Participate in university-wide communications planning and internal/external professional development seminars in order to continuously improve personal performance.
Meet with university partners as appropriate.
Other duties as assigned.
About our team: The Department of Brand Management oversees all representations of the Oklahoma State University brand.
Our areas of expertise include media relations, crisis communications, internal/external messaging, branding, advertising, recruitment communications, visual media, digital strategy and more.
This department aims to advance OSU’s land-grant mission and demonstrate its global impact through creative communications that support student success, elevate brand reputation, engage the Cowboy family, and serve the state of Oklahoma and beyond.
Special Instructions to Applicants Applicants must submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references for consideration.
Education & Experience Position Qualifications: Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, PR, Public Affairs, Political Science, Marketing, Creative Writing or a related field.
Demonstrated experience in planning, writing and editing compelling communications on behalf of an organization or publication.
This can include, but is not limited to, social media, video, web, writing, editing and content creation.
Must be able to analyze complex ideas, internal and external stakeholders, and multiple sources of information to develop communications strategies and effective messaging and content.
Must demonstrate skills in writing and editing press releases and news articles in AP style, feature stories, news writing, web content, presentations, internal messaging and strategic communications.
Must have excellent people skills and ability to effectively deal with multiple contacts or stakeholders for projects.
Must have the ability to work cross-functionally with supervisors, the Brand Management team and campus partners to ensure a collaborative environment, coordinated efforts and maximized outcomes.
Must demonstrate flexibility in the work environment and exhibit strong attention to detail as well as the ability to effectively manage multiple assignments and priorities on deadline.
Demonstrate creativity, integrity and passion for growing the brand of Oklahoma State University.
Preferred Qualifications: Three or more years of experience.
Demonstrated experience in writing in AP style.
Oklahoma State University (OSU) strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students.
To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, OSU conducts pre-employment background checks on final candidates.
Offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.
The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal (felony and misdemeanor) history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification.
Background checks will be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the university, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.
Oklahoma State University, as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action.
Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions.
For more information, visit eeo.
okstate.
edu.