Assistant Director, Media Relations

Proactively promotes Tulane University faculty, research, staff, donors, students, programs, grants and initiatives in ways that advance the University’s reputation as one of America’s leading research universities among national, international, regional and local media. This position requires strong news judgment, excellent writing and editing skills, a deep understanding of what journalists need and the ability to translate complex research, scholarship, programs and institutional priorities into compelling media opportunities for national, international, regional and local outlets.  

A member of the Media Relations team and reporting to the Director of Media Relations within University Communications and Marketing (UCM), works closely with faculty, researchers, administrators and communications colleagues to develop media strategies, prepare experts for interviews, respond to media inquiries and secure high-impact earned coverage. The position must have a good working knowledge of communications methods and platforms; be highly organized and detail-oriented; and possess the ability to manage numerous assignments simultaneously and adjust to unscheduled developments requiring immediate attention.  

• Exceptional writing and editing skills, including the ability to produce clear, accurate news releases, pitches, expert advisories, talking points and other media materials under deadline.


• Solid news judgment, fluency in AP Style, a clear understanding of how newsrooms operate and the ability to connect institutional priorities, subject matter expertise and research to breaking news, national trends, public conversations and issues of broad public interest.  


• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple demands and/or projects simultaneously, make decisions, and follow up proactively in a dynamic environment and troubleshoot problems as they arise.


• Excellent interpersonal communication and relationship management skills.  


• The ability to collaborate strategically with colleagues across departments in order to reach communications goals and objectives.


• The ability and willingness to be assertive in meeting the goals of the department in making media placements.


• The acumen to match institutional strengths with prevailing trends in communications in order to showcase the University.


• Ability to work nights, weekends and holidays if required.

­REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:  

• A bachelor's degree in communications, journalism or a related field.


• 5 years of related professional experience in public relations or journalism, including experience pitching media or developing news content.
  
   

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:  

• An advanced degree in journalism or a related communications field.


• Established network of media contacts.


• Short-form videography and video editing skills.