The Public Relations Specialist facilitates and coordinates marketing efforts to execute external communications strategies that provide greater awareness of the Institute and its programs in the immediate community and beyond. The incumbent will focus on drafting announcements and releases; pitching media to secure placements; facilitating incoming media inquiries, media interviews, and photo shoots; and managing promotional programs. This position functions as a member of the public relations team and collaborates both internally in the department and with various programs throughout the Institute.

1. Under the direction of department leadership, ensure the Institute's mission, objectives and messages are effectively, accurately, and consistently communicated to key audiences in all earned media communications.
2. Establish collaborative working relationships with Institute staff to facilitate the identification and amplification of news and feature stories.
3. Write press releases for upcoming events, new programs, or research news.
4. Develop and maintain relationships with media contacts and the Institute’s public relations agency to facilitate media coverage and other editorial opportunities with key outlets.
5. Field incoming media inquiries and coordinate media interviews.
6. Participate in media training events and one-on-one media preparation.
7. Supervise media photo shoots.
8. Collaborate with the Institute events team to publicize and raise awareness about key Institute events held throughout the year.
9. Provide support to reporters and photographers who attend Institute events.
10. Maintain a list of current media hits for the website and National Information and Reporting System (NIRS) research database.
11. Collaborate with other Marketing and Communications department staff on the creation and use of relevant media content for the Institute's website, social media pages, and other external publications.
12. Assist public relations team with social media coverage as needed during team members’ vacations or absences.

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field required.

• Minimum 3 years of professional experience in an advertising, marketing, internal communications, or communications/media relations related role required.
• Healthcare, non-profit, search engine marketing, or advertising agency experience preferred.