University of Florida

Classification Title:

Public Relations Specialist III

Job Description:

Define, oversee, and direct strategy development and implementation of comprehensive strategic communications and public relations plans that informs and promotes the Division of Student Life

• Develop and oversee the execution of strategic storytelling through multi-channel dissemination to keep stakeholders informed; ensure all are in-line with appropriate targets, timelines, policies and techniques
• Create long-range strategic communication plans that yield positive results and align with the mission and goals of the area and division.
• Research, interview sources, and translate complex subject matter into compelling press releases, story ideas, and features.
• Develops and maintains a positive public image for the organization through public-facing communication.
• Monitor and measure communication and public relation strategy effectiveness through data analysis and communicate findings to assist in planning and decision-making.
• Serve as an editor, proofreading content for clarity, accuracy, content, and adherence to institutional brand standards.
• Ensure all work produced follows the correct branding standards while being inventive and imaginative in developing original and creative products.
• Collaborate with the Student Life Assessment & Research team to develop an understanding of our target audience, effectiveness of our communication strategies, and initiatives
• Benchmark with individuals and organizations outside the university community and forecast future trends to serve best the goals and objectives of the division.
• Oversee and manage the usage of the division’s mass email marketing solution.
• Craft scripts, speeches, email communications and arrange and manage interviews for division leadership.
• Serve as lead writer for the division’s written communication, crafting articles, features, website content, narrative for brochures, newsletters, and social media. 

Responsible for managing media relations and assisting with crisis communications for the Division of Student Life

• Cultivate key relationships with media outlets and the University of Florida’s office of Strategic Communications and Marketing to enhance the division’s visibility.
• Manage the division’s media inquiries; developing and building relationships with the media; responding to requests by working alongside division departments to coordinate communication efforts.
• Serve as the division’s spokesperson.
• Work closely with embedded and central marketing staff members to align public relations efforts with overall divisional marketing and communication strategies.
• Serve as the secondary liaison to, and work in close collaboration with, the University of Florida Strategic Communications and Marketing division related to media inquiries and crisis communication efforts.

Ensure compliance with brand standards by providing information, direction, and/or education to Division of Student Life staff members.

• Serve as a consultant for the division for strategic communications, public relations, and media training.
• Assist in the development and implementation of policies and procedures relating to internal and external communication processes and procedures.
• Develop and facilitate workshops, trainings, and briefings with cross-functional teams to inform strategy, activations, and comprehensive message strategy.
• Coordinate with staff to make sure Division of Student Life employees are educated on and follow communication guidelines.

Perform other related functions including developing reports and handling special projects.

• Serve on Division of Student Life or University of Florida committees as needed

Expected Salary:

$60,000 Annually 

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree in appropriate area and two years of relevant experience; or a bachelor’s degree in appropriate area and four years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Master's degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or related field.
• Experience in public relations with a focus on higher education.
• Experience managing reputation risks and developing proactive communication strategies.
• Experience in managing issues and crisis communication efforts in high-pressure situations.
• Demonstrated experience in creating and managing relationships with media outlets.
• Experience leveraging data and analytics to inform and optimize communication strategy.

SKILLS

• Excellent communication (verbal and written); demonstrated the ability to craft clear and concise message for diverse audiences and channels
• Demonstrated effective planning and organization skills
• Demonstrated experience in building strong and collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrate strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

ABILITIES

• Proven ability to effectively lead and direct collaborative, customer-based services in a complex environment with multiple stakeholders.
• Accuracy, attention to detail and a customer service-oriented attitude
• Demonstrated ability to function effectively in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions
• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple projects or tasks simultaneously
• Ability to work as part of a team in a multi-faceted environment

Special Instructions to Applicants:

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter, resume, portfolio link, and references.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Health Assessment Required: No