Communication & Media Relations Officer

The Communication and Media Relations Officer oversees the institution’s public relations strategy, media outreach, and internal communication. This role ensures the institution’s reputation is positively represented across all external channels while maintaining clear and compelling internal messaging. The ideal candidate excels in media relations, crisis communication, and strategic storytelling within the medical higher education environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Media Relations & Public Communication
● Develop and execute media relations strategies to secure positive media coverage in local, regional, and national outlets.
● Write and distribute press releases, media kits, and official statements to promote institutional achievements and initiatives.
● Serve as the primary contact for journalists, media inquiries, and press engagements.
● Coordinate press conferences, media briefings, and public events with key stakeholders.

2. Crisis Communication & Reputation Management
● Develop and manage the institution’s crisis communication plan, ensuring timely and effective responses to sensitive issues.
● Provide strategic counsel to leadership during crises to maintain the institution’s reputation.
● Monitor media coverage and public sentiment, addressing potential reputational risks proactively.

3. Internal Communication & Employee Engagement
● Design and implement internal communication strategies to foster transparency and engagement among faculty, staff, and students. ● Draft and distribute internal newsletters, announcements, and leadership messages.
● Work closely with HR and leadership to align internal messaging with institutional goals and culture.

4. Institutional Storytelling & Brand Messaging
● Collaborate with the Copywriter to develop compelling institutional narratives, success stories, and faculty spotlights.
● Ensure consistency in the institution’s tone of voice, messaging, and visual identity across all communication channels.
● Support the Content & Social Media Specialist by amplifying key institutional messages through digital platforms.

5. Media Monitoring & Performance Reporting
● Monitor media coverage, press mentions, and public discourse related to the institution.
● Prepare media reports and analysis for leadership, highlighting key opportunities and challenges.
● Use insights to refine media strategies and improve public engagement.


Requirements

● Education: Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
● Experience: 4-6 years in media relations, corporate communications, or public affairs, preferably in higher education or healthcare.
● Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with experience in public relations and media engagement.
● Proven ability to manage crisis communication and reputation management.
● Experience with media monitoring and brand listening tools (Meltwater, Cision, Google Alerts, brand24) and reporting.
● Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with the ability to collaborate across departments.
● Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines and respond quickly to emerging situations.