Public Relations Manager

JOB SUMMARY: 

This position is a key part of the communications team, driving impact through a keen sense for media relations while using our unified voice to tell stories of what makes being a Gustie so special. In this role, you will demonstrate an eagerness to jump in and help tell Gustavus’ story across the Upper Midwest. You will hone in on the stories that make being a Gustie so unique. The Public Relations Manager will work closely with our internal communications team to seamlessly build a unified voice for all of our external engagements. Your background will enable you to build partnerships with subject matter experts across the Gustavus community, build out media training and help prep our spokespeople for interviews across all mediums. You will develop relationships with reporters, editors and producers in key markets, including the Twin Cities, Sioux Falls, Rochester and the Mankato/St. Peter area. And you will help us track and measure our earned media impact through media tracking and reporting. 

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Contribute to a growing, high-performing team while promoting a strong culture of collaboration, excellence and accountability. 
• Lead the development and execution of Gustavus Adolphus’ public relations strategy.
• Research, write, edit and fact-check press releases and media advisories. 
• Build news content via internal and external channels, including website newsroom posts, internal communications, and social media platforms.
• Cultivate relationships with reporters, editors and producers across local, regional and trade publications in order to elevate our brand through earned media.
• Work closely with internal communications team to identify subject matter experts for key interview opportunities. 
• Provide media coaching and interview support to spokespeople, as needed.
• Attend phone, video or on-site media opportunities, and be the point of contact for media members for lining up interviews and any follow-ups.
• Monitor, track and report earned media placements, metrics and outcomes.
• Work closely with contracted resources and public relations agencies, as needed, project managing work related to these partnerships. 
• Champion innovative change and approaches, helping teams and individuals succeed. 
• Find ways to streamline current PR processes and help implement new ideas and best practices to reach our targeted goals.
• Other duties as assigned.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Education/Training: Degree in journalism, public relations, strategic communications, English or a related field.
• Experience: A minimum of 5 years of paid industry experience in a related field.
• Writing: Proficiency in AP style.
• Software Proficiency: Proficiency in MS Office products including MS Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
• Media Tracking: Experience in using a media tracking system, and building recaps to highlight placements, impressions and media value (e.g. Meltwater, Muck Rack, etc.)
• Relationship Management: Past experience working with newsrooms and media outlets, as well as spokespeople across.
• Social Media and Emotional Storytelling: Experience creating short-form content (e.g., social media posts) and content that conveys emotional storytelling.
• Business Mindset: Understanding of how creative content is used and conveyed through key messaging and executive counsel, with an emphasis on brand and messaging.
• Independence: Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage projects from start to finish.
• Creative and Detail-Oriented: A creative mindset with a keen eye for detail.
• Communication and Collaboration: Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, students, and partners.
• Time Management: Ability to work under tight deadlines, manage multiple projects, and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Gustavus offers competitive and comprehensive benefits which include:

• Medical insurance (which includes access to Nice Healthcare) as well as dental, vision, and life insurance
• Workplace accommodations for physical or mental health concerns
• Onsite health services
• Free parking, exercise classes, and use of library and athletic facilities
• Paid parental leave
• Employer contribution to retirement savings plan (after one year of employment)
• Tuition scholarships for dependents
• Tuition benefit plan for employees and spouse
• 13 paid Holidays + generous PTO plan