Advertised Summary Job Description: Columbia University Medical Center (CUMC) is looking for a media relations specialist to pitch/place compelling stories in the media on CUMC's basic science research, clinical enterprise, education and community initiatives.
Supporting the activities of the media team and reporting to the director of media relations, the media relations specialist handles reactive and proactive day-to-day media relations activities of the Office of Communications and Public Affairs. The media relations specialist identifies stories and pitches and places in the media via the development of pitch letters, news releases and/or web stories.
The incumbent will assist in media monitoring, tracking and development of media results reports.
In addition, the media relations specialist will perform administrative and "housekeeping" tasks, including media list maintenance, coordination with monitoring and news services, and management of news clip files.
The media relations specialist must demonstrate the ability to:
Evaluate and identify potential CUMC news, develop content, usually on CUMC's clinical enterprise, education and community initiatives, and pitch and disseminate stories to the public via digital platforms, including media outlets, Columbia-owned websites, and social media.
Manage and respond quickly to incoming inquiries from the news media.
Assist in emergency situations that may require communications support; serve as "on call" media officer on rotating schedule.
Pay exceptional attention to accuracy and editorial detail.
Be flexible, organized, and comfortable with managing multiple projects on deadline.
Work comfortably with journalists, physicians, and in CUMC's team environment.
Exercise discretion and exhibit good judgment.
Other duties as assigned.
General Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism or related field or equivalent in education and experience, plus a minimum of three years or more of related experience, good writing skills, a strong work ethic and sense of humor are required.
Additional Specific Minimum Qualifications: Must have strong writing, editing, publishing and communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word), Vocus platform and Google Analytics.
Preferred Qualifications:
As a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the Council of Ivy Group Presidents (Ivy League), it is imperative that members of the Columbia University community, in all matters related to the intercollegiate athletics program, exhibit the highest professional standards and ethical behavior with regard to adherence to NCAA, Conference, University, and Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and Physical Education rules and regulations.
Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. |
