Reports to:Senior Director, Media Relations and University Spokesperson
Purpose:
The job holder is responsible for managing and executing the media relations program of the University. This includes promoting the University's image and identity using media relations strategies including reporting, writing and dissemination of information in a variety of formats to the news media that elevates the University's image and key initiatives. He/she is responsible for creating a larger presence for the American University in Cairo (AUC) and its branding messaging in the media outlets, including print, online and television. The job holder builds and maintains relationships with local, national and international media to help them tap into The American University in Cairo's (AUC) experts and report on the University's news and events
Responsibilities:
- Works closely with the senior director of media relations and University spokesperson to develop media relations strategies that support the university's mission, experts and programs via multiple media channels, and build brand awareness
- Responsible for daily media relations activities
- Promotes the American University in Cairo (AUC) in a range of media outlets including but not limited to local mainstream media outlets including dailies, weeklies, broadcast, television and digital platforms
- Identifies, develops, writes and pitches media stories and events in support of AUC's strategic priorities; writes and proofreads press releases, articles; and responds to media inquiries and interviews
- Works closely with top-tier media outlets and proactively develops and maintains positive relationships with key members of the mainstream media, including reporters, editors and producers to expand coverage
- Searches, writes and promotes the American University in Cairo (AUC) feature stories regarding faculty, students, schools and departments achievements
- Collaborates with internal and external constituents to develop/implement appropriate media relations for gaining the highest level of visibility across the media landscape
- Organizes media roundtable discussions and conferences to highlight the University's excellence, as well as faculty and academic achievements
- Organizes campus tours for media representatives to promote the state-of-the-art facilities of The American University in Cairo (AUC) campus as well as the different programs of the University
- Conducts outreach visits with media outlets to establish personal contacts and keep them informed regarding The American University in Cairo's (AUC) services and contacts
- Provides support in planning and implementation of media relations strategies and press releases for high visibility events
- Monitors daily media coverage to refine or adapt and leverage the messages and strategic media relations plans as necessary. Also pinpoints any negative coverage to report to the senior director of media relations
- Perform other related duties as requested from direct supervisor
Requirements:
Minimum Education Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree is required
- Master's degree is preferred
Experience:
- Minimum of 12 years of experience in the field of journalism, editing, public relations and communications
Skills:
- Strategic thinker
- Leadership capabilities
- Superior writing and oral communications skills
- Professional knowledge of journalism, public relations and general communications principles and practices
- Excellent English and Arabic writing and editing skills
- Advanced writing and editing skills, including knowledge of basic English usage, style and grammar
- Ability to use independent judgement and to seek out and identify potential stories that advance the University's positioning
- Ability to coordinate work projects, determine priorities, set deadlines and complete projects accordingly
- Strategic planning skills
- Strong organizational skills and attention to details
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
- Computer skills MS Office (MS Word, MS PowerPoint, MS Excel, etc.)
This position is open until December 6, 2023
Placement is based on the candidate's experience and skills. Only candidates who make it to the shortlist will be contacted.
The American University in Cairo is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
We thank all individuals who have expressed interest in working at The American University in Cairo.
