Freelance PR Specialist

Introduction

University of the People (UoPeople) is the first non-profit, tuition-free, American, accredited, 100% online university. Today, UoPeople has over 170,000 students enrolled from more than 200 countries and territories, including 18,800 students who are refugees. UoPeople is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

We believe that higher education is a basic human right and that it can transform not only the lives of students, but also their families lives, their communities, their nations, and, by extension, the world. See President Reshef's TED Talk when he announced the founding of the University.

UoPeople is an innovative university, and we welcome team members who bring creativity and innovation to their roles. We're a fast-paced organization with remote teams all around the globe. If you're a self-starter who wants to succeed alongside a passionate team, we'd love to hear from you!

UoPeople is supported by the generosity of individuals and foundations, including the Gates, Hewlett, Ford Foundations, Foundation Hoffmann, and others. The University has been covered by The New York Times, BBC, NPR, Times Higher Education, U.S. News & World Report, and many other leading media outlets. President Reshef's TED Talk and Nas Daily interview about the University have more than 30 million combined views.

Role Overview

We seek an experienced PR specialist based in Saudi Arabia to lead local media outreach for University of the People. You will focus exclusively on the Saudi market and report to our Head of PR.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop culturally appropriate story angles and narratives for Saudi media
• Draft and adapt press releases, pitches, and op-eds in coordination with the global PR team
• Build and maintain relationships with key journalists, editors, and producers across Saudi media
• Identify and secure interviews, features, and other earned media opportunities
• Monitor and report monthly on outreach activity and coverage results

Requirements

• 3+ years of PR, communications, or media relations experience in Saudi Arabia
• Strong understanding of the Saudi media landscape and regulatory/cultural context
• Proven track record securing coverage in Arabic and/or English-language outlets
• Excellent communication skills in Arabic; strong English skills required
• Experience working with education, nonprofit, or mission-driven organizations preferred
• Comfortable working independently and across time zones with a global team

Engagement & Compensation

• Freelance / part-time role
• Approx. 10–15 hours per month (with flexibility)

How to Apply

• Please submit your CV, a short overview of your PR experience in Saudi Arabia, and 2–3 examples of media coverage you have secured, ideally including Arabic-language placements.