Inside Higher Ed is hiring : Director, Media Relations in Greensboro

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Position Details

Position Number : 998050

Functional Title : Director, Media Relations

Position Type : Administration - Staff

Position Eclass : EP - EHRA 12 mo leave earning

University Information : Located in North Carolina’s third largest city, UNC Greensboro is among the most diverse, learner-centered public research universities in the state, with 18,000 students in eight colleges and schools pursuing more than 150 areas of undergraduate and over 200 areas of graduate study. UNCG is recognized for academic excellence, access, and affordability. UNCG is ranked No. 1 most affordable institution in North Carolina for net cost by the NY Times and No. 1 in North Carolina for social mobility by The Wall Street Journal. It is designated an Innovation and Economic Prosperity University by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. The University’s 2,600 staff help create an annual economic impact for the Piedmont Triad region in excess of $1B.

Primary Purpose Of The Organizational Unit : University Communications (UC) elevates UNCG’s public profile through communications and marketing strategies across digital, social, and print channels. Reporting to the Office of the Chancellor, UC provides external communications to increase public awareness and support, with expertise in communications / media, creative services, web communications, and marketing.

Position Summary : The director of media relations serves as the University’s primary liaison to local, regional, and national media. This strategic role promotes UNCG’s academic excellence, research impact, student success and economic mobility, community engagement, and milestones by developing and executing proactive media relations strategies. The director also manages issues communications and supports the University’s reputation during crises or sensitive situations. Additionally, the director acts as a primary University spokesperson and manages the work of a media relations specialist.

Minimum Qualifications :

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, English, or a related field

At least seven years of progressively responsible experience in media relations or journalism, preferably in higher education, government, an agency, or a large nonprofit

A strong understanding of the news cycle and newsroom roles

Familiarity with leading podcasters and influencers, with an understanding of brand-building tactics

Demonstrated success in placing stories in high-profile outlets (regionally and nationally) and navigating complex media environments

Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills

Experience writing and editing using Associated Press Stylebook guidelines

Exceptional management and mentoring abilities

Strong news judgment and crisis communication experience

Preferred Qualifications :

Master’s degree in communications or related discipline

Familiarity with North Carolina media markets and the UNC System

Experience working with faculty or subject-matter experts

Proficiency in media monitoring tools, CRM platforms, and CMS systems

Spanish language proficiency is a plus

Recruitment Range : Commensurate with experience

Org #-Department : University Communications - 33901

Job Open Date : 09 / 03 / 2025

Job Close Date : 10 / 01 / 2025

Open Until Filled : No

FTE : 1.000

Type Of Appointment : Permanent

Number Of Months Per Year : 12

FLSA : Exempt

Percentage Of Time : 40

Key Responsibilities : Media Strategy and Outreach

Develop and implement a comprehensive media relations strategy aligned with institutional priorities.

Build and maintain relationships with journalists, podcasters, and influencers across print, digital, and broadcast platforms.

Proactively pitch stories that elevate the visibility of UNCG’s programs, research, faculty, and students.

Monitor media trends, respond to breaking news, and identify opportunities for strategic positioning of UNCG leaders and initiatives.

Percentage Of Time : 25

Key Responsibilities : News Development and Distribution

Identify and craft compelling news stories and news releases that reflect the University’s strategic goals.

Serve as the lead editor and coordinator for news announcements, media advisories, and expert commentary.

Manage a dynamic media relations calendar that aligns with academic, research, and public engagement milestones.

Collaborate with department staff to plan promotional photography, video, and multimedia projects.

Percentage Of Time : 15

Key Responsibilities : Crisis and Issues Communication

Support crisis communication efforts by drafting media statements, FAQs, talking points, and key messages.

Coordinate news conferences and special events as needed.

Serve as a member of the incident communications response team, including after-hours availability when needed.

Maintain the University crisis communications plan.

Advise University leadership on communications risks and media response strategies.

Percentage Of Time : 10

Key Responsibilities : Media Training and Faculty Engagement

Coordinate and conduct media training sessions for faculty and staff

Cultivate, help maintain, and promote a network of faculty experts prepared to speak with the media on timely topics

Collaborate with deans and department chairs to identify faculty for media opportunities

Guide faculty and senior leaders in writing op-ed pieces aligned with their expertise

Key Responsibilities : Metrics, Monitoring, and Evaluation

Track media coverage, analyze performance metrics, and generate regular reports on media reach and sentiment in partnership with the data analyst.

Oversee media monitoring services and maintain the University’s media database and news content.

Oversee the dissemination of daily media highlights email.

Seniority level : Director

Employment type : Full-time

Job function : Marketing, Public Relations, and Writing / Editing

Industries : Online Audio and Video Media

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