Public 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.

What You'll Do:

• 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.
• Assist in overseeing 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.

We take great pride in making Forbes’ 2022 list of America’s Best Midsize Employers. A lot of different factors go into that honor, many of which contribute to your job satisfaction.

At Sentry, your total rewards go beyond competitive compensation. Below are some benefits and perks that you’ll receive.

• To best support our associates and our culture, Sentry is happy to offer flexibility through a scheduled work from home (Monday and Friday)/in office days (Tuesday through Thursday) after we begin to return to the office.
• 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 strengthen your financial 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.
• Sentry Foundation gift matching program to encourage charitable giving.
• Continue your education and career development through Sentry University (SentryU).