Public Relations/Media Relations Specialist

This position offers a unique and coveted opportunity to join a growing and results-oriented Corporate Communications team with one of the largest and most financially secure mutual insurance companies in the United States. It provides an exciting work environment that is fast-paced and agency like, coupled with a supportive culture and truly outstanding benefits focused on both personal and professional development.

We are seeking a highly strategic and driven Public Relations professional to help drive action and advocacy among key stakeholders by telling Sentry’s story and building a shared belief in the company as an innovative thought leader, and a customer-centric and caring organization. This individual will work closely with organization leadership, as well as form and maintain relationships with valued stakeholders and influencers on behalf of Sentry.

Work with the Director of Corporate Communications, as well as business leaders, to align external communications efforts with the goals and objectives of the company. Key areas of focus include: Traditional Media Relations, Thought Leadership, Business Unit Support, Crisis Communications, Public Affairs and Storytelling/Content Creation.

Align with corporate strategies and initiatives, develop and implement external communications plans to promote Sentry’s products & services, underscore our brand promise, and position the company as an industry leader and a driven community partner.

Develop and strengthen relationships with targeted broadcast, print and digital media, including trade media that serve the industries in which we do business. Serve as a point of contact for news media and spokesperson on company matters. Help ensure Sentry is the leader in share of media attention versus its competitors and that news coverage is favorable, fair and accurate.

Identify and create opportunities to obtain media coverage for Sentry’s products, services and community commitment to favorably position the brand and promote awareness of brand attributes, company offerings and corporate citizenship.

Prepare leaders and subject matter experts for interviews and speaking engagements for maximum result.

Oversee PR agency management support, providing guidance, direction and action steps in conjunction with Corporate Communications Director.

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism or related field

Minimum 5 years of related work experience in public / media relations, marketing publicity and crisis communications at a commensurate job level

Accreditation in Public Relations preferred

Proven ability to develop and successfully execute strategic public relations / communications programs

Strong writing skills across multiple communication vehicles (print, online, social media, etc.) and types (news releases, bylines, social media content, plans, reports, etc.) with a general understanding of search engine optimization (SEO)

Strong editing and proofreading skills

Excellent project management skills with strong attention to detail

Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment

Strong interpersonal communication skills and ability to build successful relationships with internal stakeholders at all levels up to senior executives, as well as with external partners including media, influencers and community members

Demonstrated initiative and success leading communications efforts in a team environment

Proven ability to understand complex business issues

High degree of professionalism, maturity and confidentiality who applies sound judgement

An open-minded approach and the ability to think on one’s feet

There is a reason why Sentry made Forbes’ list of America’s Best Midsize Employers in 2017, 2018,and 2019. At Sentry, we recognize there are many factors that contribute to your overall satisfaction both at work, and in your personal life. So, we provide a perfect mixture of compensation, benefits, company culture, and resources to ensure your everyday happiness. Below are some benefits that you’ll receive. Competitive compensationto reward you for your hard work every day.

Generous Paid-Time Off Plan for you to enjoy time out of the office.

401(K) plan with a dollar for dollar match on your first eight percent, plus immediate vesting to help fund your future.

Group Medical, Dental, Vision and Life insurance to encourage a healthy lifestyle.

Pretax Dependent Care and Health Expense Reimbursement Accounts to ease taxes on health spending.

Extensive Work-Life Resources to lend a helping hand.

Volunteer Time Off so you can dedicate time to the community.

Sentry Foundation gift matching program to encourage charitable giving.