Public Relations Specialist

Job Title:                    Public Relations Specialist

 Job Summary:

 Under supervision, engages with members of the media and other influencers to build and maintain positive relationships on behalf of the organization with the objective of creating positive media coverage. Continually increases the amount and frequency of positive media coverage the organization receives by keeping current with media contacts and developing newsworthy angles. Researches current events and trends and recommends topics for news releases. Writes news releases and media pitch letters. Participates in social networking and on the Social Media Taskforce. Helps plan and prepare materials and events related to public relations and publicity. Develops and maintains relationships with club and district public relations officers and assists them as needed.

 Duties and Responsibilities:

·         Monitor daily news coverage and post top stories on Web site’s In the News page.

·         Identify key media partners and build relationships with them – domestically as well as internationally.

·         Coordinate media opportunities with Toastmasters spokespersons and create media briefs for each.

·         Build and maintain positive relationships with media representatives and continually identify new media influencers to ping.

·         Daily monitor sites such as HARO and Profnet for publicity opportunities

·         Post PR-specific information to social networks, such as Facebook and Twitter.

·         Participate in the Social Media Taskforce as the PR representative.  

·         Research and recommend topics for monthly news releases to manager

·         On approval, draft and distribute monthly news release.

·         Compile media lists and conduct media relations after distributing each release.

·         Research and coordinate services with vendors such as PR Newswire and Cision.

·         Write, update and distribute PR resources for media representatives as well as for public relations officers.

·         Draft articles for the MPR Newsletter.

·         Create bi-monthly clip reports.

·         Assist and engage with club and district public relations officers.

·         Meet all deadlines.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

·         Knowledge social networking: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn

·         Knowledge of AP Style

·         Expertise in Microsoft Word and Excel software

·         Proven excellence in newspaper-style writing

·         Strong organizational and interpersonal skills

·         Ability to work on a team and contribute to multiple projects

·         Independence and critical thinking skills

 Minimum Job Requirements:

 ·         Must have a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism or Public Relations

·         Detail-oriented individual with a minimum of five years professional experience in public relations.

 Applicants should send resume and cover letter to sfrey@toastmasters.org.