Senior Media Relations Specialist

About the role

The Senior Media Relations Specialist supports East Texas A&M University’s mission by building and maintaining strong relationships with media outlets at local, regional, and national levels. Working under general supervision, the specialist enhances the university’s visibility and credibility through strategic media engagement.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and sustain relationships with media contacts across local, metro, regional, statewide, and selected national outlets.
• Identify and promote faculty expertise for media placements and interviews.
• Coordinate timely responses to media inquiries and manage crisis communications when needed.
• Write, edit, and distribute press releases, fact sheets, and other media materials that reflect the university’s strategic priorities.
• Collaborate with the Communications and Editorial Manager to align media activities with overall communication strategies.

Required profile

• Undergraduate degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field.
• Several years of professional experience in media relations, preferably in higher‑education or large‑institution settings.
• Demonstrated ability to craft clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational skills and the capacity to manage multiple media projects simultaneously.

Required skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in media monitoring and press release distribution tools.
• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships with journalists and editors.
• Knowledge of higher‑education landscape and public affairs.