Public Relations Specialist

Saint Louis University • St. Louis, MO

5d

About The Position

Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. SLU, which also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service. The Public Relations Specialist will join a team of communicators to help develop a proactive earned media strategy; research, write and distribute University news and information; develop and cultivate national, regional and local media relationships; partner with campus units to develop story ideas; monitor emerging trends and news developments; write articles for University publications. The ideal candidate combines exceptional writing and editing skills, attention to detail, innate curiosity and a passion for storytelling. They inspire trust, manage multiple priorities with professionalism and thrive in a collaborative, mission-driven environment rooted in Jesuit values.

Requirements

• Strong writing and editing skills and mastery of AP Style
• Sound news judgment
• Interpersonal relations skills
• Organizational/planning skills
• Ability to translate complex academic, research and institutional topics into clear, compelling messages and storylines for external audiences
• Ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines while maintaining quality and attention to detail
• Discretion and ability to maintain confidentiality
• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or related field
• 3+ years of experience in public relations/communications/journalism

Nice To Haves

• Experience in a communications or PR agency setting, higher education communications and/or in a complex organization, with demonstrated success in securing coverage with national and regional media
• Understanding of how earned media, storytelling and reputation management support enrollment and institutional priorities

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute proactive earned media strategies that advance the University’s institutional priorities, academic strengths, research and reputation.
• Develop, write, edit and distribute news and information regarding the University to the media; proactively drive positive local, regional and national coverage.
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with the media, pitching and collaborating on story ideas, answering inquiries and coordinating interviews.
• Interact with institutional faculty, staff and students to cultivate story ideas; consult with faculty to promote strategic areas of expertise; assist with interview preparation.
• Monitor relevant regional and national trends; identify and develop newsworthy content, media placements and timely stories for amplification through owned channels.
• Monitor news coverage and track media placements; use media monitoring and analytics tools to assess performance and inform strategy.
• Assist with online news content and internal e-newsletter; help maintain Web pages; assist with internal communications; write stories for University publications.

Benefits

• Saint Louis University offers a robust benefits package, such as tuition remission benefits for full-time employees and their dependents, comprehensive health coverage, generous retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Additionally, employees enjoy an inclusive community, wellness programs, and various discounts, all reflecting the university’s commitment to their well-being and success.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level