Manager, Media & Communications

Department:

Media and Communications

Division:

Development & Communications

Location:

New York, NY

Job Summary:

The Manager, Media & Communications, will manage specific objectives and projects related to the successful implementation of the ASPCA's communications function, with a strong emphasis on creating and implementing integrated communications plans where media outreach is a major element, as well as manage such outreach for projects as assigned by the supervisor. In addition, (s)he will support the entire Media & Communications team in meeting departmental and organizational objectives, as well as continue to follow departmental procedures.

Candidate must possess strong relationships with consumer and news media, and have experience managing media stories with a proven track record of placements in leading national media outlets.

Job Responsibilities:

Day-to-day responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Creating and implementing strategic and integrated communications plans using a wide range of communications tactics to support programmatic and organizational efforts
• Concepting compelling story ideas and drafting well-researched story pitches
• Engaging in pro-active media outreach and pitching for assigned program areas that yield media placements
• Drafting, editing and disseminating communications materials such as press releases, media/photo advisories, calendar listings, public service announcements, articles for newsletter and website, and other materials as required
• Coordinating specific public relations tasks and/or events with other departments and managing the implementation of these projects as necessary
• Managing ongoing media relations and outreach, including arranging and covering radio, print, online and television interviews/appearances, outside those regularly scheduled (such as for the Adoptions department)
• Potentially managing staff
• Developing and nurturing relationships with external audiences (media, third-party constituencies, etc.) to convey the ASPCA's message
• Ensure communications outreach is research-based and measurable, using approved techniques that meet the industry standard, including the dashboard, etc.
• Representing the ASPCA at events, as required
• Conducting photography for media and ASPCA events and programs, as required
• Coordinating production and distribution of material with other ASPCA departments as required
• Participating in Media & Communications departmental meetings and working cross-functionally with other members of the team
• Creating/maintaining media lists
• Being available as emergency contact after business hours, on holidays and weekends, as required
• Consistent and regular reporting to supervisor
• Researching, participating in, and sharing with the rest of the team professional development/learning opportunities as appropriate
• Other duties, as required and deemed necessary by supervisor

Education:

• BA, BS or equivalent required; Liberal Arts (English, history, etc), public relations, journalism or communications major preferred

Experience:

• Four to six years related experience in public relations/media management
• 2-3 Years PR Agency experience required
• Proven track record of placements in leading national media
• Experience managing staff of one to three publicists
• Experience with social media and developing successful social media campaigns
• Experience writing and delivering presentations

Knowledge Requirements:

• Strong relationships with consumer and news media
• Knowledge of AP Style
• Knowledge of wide range of PR tactics
• Knowledge of and experience with social media
• Knowledge of media research software such as Vocus, Lexis Nexis/Factiva/FNS, etc.
• Ability to think strategically and create strategic PR plans and pitches
• Ability to follow and report on animal welfare trends reported in the media
• Understanding of current research and public relations/communications measurement standards and application
• Knowledge of, and experience with, commonly-used public relations and communications tactics, such as SMTs, RMTs, VNRs, ANRs, PSAs, mat releases, co-op media tours, etc.
• Knowledge and understanding of the ASPCA�2019;s mission, programs, policies, philosophies

Skills Requirements:

• Must possess strong written and oral communications skills
• Strong work ethic, creativity and passion for field
• Ease conceiving and drafting PR plans, pitches, and press releases
• Ability to work effectively on an intra- and inter-departmental level
• Ability to think strategically and develop story ideas and pitches that support strategic communications plans and result in media placements
• Ability to multi-task, work under pressure, and on multiple deadlines
• Proficiency in word processing and database computer programs

Additional Information:

• Must be a legal resident of the United States and be able to provide proof of authorization to work in the United States
• Must be able to travel when necessary
• Must be available as emergency contact after business hours, on holidays and weekends, as required, which includes being available via cell phone 24/7

Benefits:

Our generous benefit package includes the following for full-time employees and (if qualified, we offer domestic partner coverage!) Medical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, 401(k), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Transit checks, Tuition Assistance Program, Training Seminars, EAP, 50% hospital discount, Vacation, Sick, Personal & Company Holiday time off.

We look forward to hearing from you!