About the position
The Public Relations (PR) and External Communications Specialist supports the development and execution of external communications strategies that elevate and protect the organization’s reputation. This role works closely with their supervisor and other team members to craft compelling narratives, manage media relations and implement tactics that engage external audiences, stakeholders and the broader community. By leveraging proactive storytelling, media outreach and/or issues and crisis management tactics, this role will play a key part in promoting the organization’s values, mission and reputation. The Specialist role may support one or several External Communications teams including reputation management, issues and crisis, market growth, B2B, managed care or other.
Responsibilities
- Writes and edits a variety of external communications materials such as press releases, media statements, briefing documents, speeches, articles, and website content that align with the Ministry’s brand and strategic goals.
- Manages and supports PR campaigns by collaborating with internal stakeholders to identify communication opportunities, objectives, and key messages.
- Proactively seeks out opportunities for positive media coverage and organizational storytelling.
- Provides project management on PR and external communications projects, ensuring all materials are developed on schedule and ready for distribution to key external audiences.
- Develops content for a range of external communications channels, including media outlets, blogs, social media, public speaking engagements, and corporate communications materials.
- Supports media relations efforts by building relationships with journalists, bloggers, and influencers.
- Manages press inquiries and tracks media coverage to ensure consistent and accurate messaging.
- Contributes to crisis communications strategies and tactics as needed, providing quick and effective responses to media inquiries and ensuring accurate information is shared with external audiences.
- Works with the PR Manager to execute strategic communication plans for major organizational initiatives, events, and leadership announcements, ensuring messages are delivered effectively to key stakeholders.
- Serves as a subject matter expert for external communication platforms, such as the company website, social media, media outreach, and public speaking opportunities.
- Ensures all external communications align with brand guidelines, corporate voice, and visual standards to maintain a consistent and cohesive public presence.
- Supports the production of additional external communications materials as needed, including presentations, brochures, event collateral, and video content.
- Manages vendor relationships where applicable.
- Supports leadership meetings and external events, providing communication strategies and content to ensure successful execution and media coverage.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or related field (required).
- Minimum 1 year of experience in Public Relations, External Communications, Media Relations, or related field (required).
Nice-to-haves
- Accreditation of Public Relations (APR) (preferred).
- Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, or related field (preferred).
- Experience with external communication strategies, media outreach and storytelling (preferred).
Benefits
- Comprehensive, affordable medical, dental and vision plans.
- Prescription drug coverage.
- Flexible spending accounts.
- Life insurance w/AD&D.
- Employer contributions to retirement savings plan when eligible.
- Paid time off.
- Educational Assistance.
