Media Relations Specialist

About the role

The Public Interest Network is seeking a Media Relations Specialist to provide communications support to our network of environmental, health and consumer advocacy organizations. The position involves project management, media strategy development, writing and editing, list building, networking, story pitching, and team recruitment.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of media campaigns from gestation to fruition.
• Develop comprehensive, multifaceted communications strategies for ongoing and new campaigns.
• Write and assist in writing news releases, blogs, position statements and internal memos.
• Edit internal and public-facing writing for consistency, clarity and relevance.
• Build and maintain lists of media contacts.
• Add to network media lists through outreach to journalists across the political spectrum and in a wide array of media including digital media, podcasts, television, radio and print.
• Pitch stories to journalists using persuasive writing and speaking skills. Match our stories to journalists' needs. Reach audiences via phone, email and social media and digital platforms.
• Build our team: recruit and manage interns. Potential to oversee junior staff. Provide organizational support as needed to other departments within our network of organizations.

Qualifications

• Concise communicator who can advocate for causes and translate wonky topics into layman's terms.
• Well-written and edited to impress even a grizzled, veteran journalist.
• Goal-driven and results-oriented, lead by example, take initiative and learn from mistakes.
• Digitally savvy with Google Suite, Microsoft Office and major social media platforms and can effectively use spreadsheets, databases and other technology.
• Preferably have at least 5 years of experience in public/media relations and/or journalism. Experience at a nonprofit or in politics is a plus.
• Have at least a bachelor’s degree and excellent academic credentials.
• Can make a two-year commitment to the position.