Public Relations Specialist

About This Role

This role is responsible for establishing and strengthening the University

’s story by working with University stakeholders and media contacts to elevate Pepperdine

’s brand position through news media. The PR Specialist

’s efforts result in compelling and accurate media coverage about Pepperdine and its people that aligns with the University

’s values, mission, and priorities. The Public Relations Specialist fulfills a central role in helping the Integrated Marketing Communications department accomplish its goals.

Responsibilities

• Identify, create, and execute media and public relations campaigns and initiatives that support the University's values, mission, and strategic goals
• Maintain a steady and positive University presence in media through news releases, connecting with faculty, staff, and media contacts
• Respond to and manage media requests
• Draft, publish and distribute media materials
• Create and manage media lists for local, national, and international media outreach, identifying relevant contacts based on beats and related coverage
• Draft and edit press releases, fact sheets, and media advisories, ensuring alignment with the University's tone and style
• Research and identify potential media interest in the University's students, alumni, faculty, centers, institutes, initiatives, and research
• Act on opportunities related to trends and media interest in topics related to University values, programs, faculty experts, and human interest stories
• Support the Associate Director of Communications and Public Relations through enacting established crisis communications protocols
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Uphold University Mission through Work Performed

Requirements

• Bachelor

’s degree in marketing, communications, journalism, public relations, or related field

• Knowledge of media relations including researching trending stories, creating media lists, and drafting press releases
• A proven ability to work on varying timelines and to maintain flexibility in a fast-paced work environment
• Collaborative mindset in order to partner and interface with internal colleagues both in the department and across the University
• Creative energy
• Superior written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent project management and organizational skills
• Demonstrated experience successfully working with peers
• Demonstrated success at working under tight deadlines
• Ability to manage sensitive and confidential communications
• Proficiency with Google Workspace