Public Relations Specialist

About the position

The Public Relations and Media Specialist at UW-River Falls is responsible for planning, preparing, and disseminating institution-related publicity and goodwill information to the public and other external entities in support of the institution's strategic communication goals. This role requires strong content creation skills and the ability to strategize with campus leadership, particularly in relation to public-facing communication for the UWRF Chancellor. The position involves developing time-sensitive messaging and community relations, working closely with the Chancellor.

Responsibilities

• Develops and executes public relations plans, projects, and initiatives utilizing various communication mediums.
• Oversee public relations efforts and campaigns to maintain favorable public and stakeholder views of UWRF.
• Initiate, write, edit and pitch media coverage story ideas that demonstrate the value and impact of a UW-River Falls education.
• Provides project management and execution of communications programs, initiatives, and tactical plans.
• Participates in the development of the public relations strategy in collaboration with communications leadership.
• Responsible for advancing the UW-River Falls brand and disseminating institution-related publicity.
• Ensure stories and information are effectively communicated to internal and external audiences.
• Researches, conducts interviews and writes/edits news stories/releases featuring individuals, campus events and research initiatives.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with state and local news media.
• Coordinate with the Chancellor's Office all media requests involving interviews with the Chancellor.
• Develops time-sensitive messaging and public-facing communication.
• Initiates, writes, and edits press coverage ideas, briefing materials, and content independently for leadership.
• Tracks media coverage of the institution and monitors reach and effectiveness of communication campaigns.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in English, communications, journalism, public relations, marketing or related field preferred.
• 3-5 years of professional experience or equivalent relevant experience.
• Excellent communication skills including writing, storytelling and research skills.
• Thorough knowledge of Associated Press (AP) writing style.
• Proficiency to edit/proofread own work and work of department employees.
• Experience and knowledge in social media and the best ways to utilize each platform.
• Highly organized, proactive, detail and deadline oriented.
• Experience managing both urgent, short-term projects and complex, longer-term projects.
• Knowledge of MS Office software applications (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with public relations and media management.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a high degree of flexibility.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental and vision benefits at a low cost.
• Employer match of Wisconsin Retirement System contributions of 6.95%.
• An attractive amount of paid leave per year in addition to paid sick leave.