ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY MEDIA RELATIONS
Job Code: 4267 (Public Relations Manager 2)
Job Grade: N
University Communications provides support and campus leadership in planning, coordination and implementation of strategic communications programs that support Stanford University and its mission. University Communications is responsible for brand positioning and strategy; issues and reputation management, crisis communications; oversight of digital content and top-level web and social media platforms; media relations and news services; executive communications with all constituencies; major publications; and a campus video productions studio and video production group. University Communications coordinates with communications professionals across the university, provides leadership to the Communications Working Group, and advises on communications policy with senior executive staff.
The Assistant Vice President for University Media Relations will manage institutional media relations for Stanford. Reporting to the Vice President for University Communications, this position will be responsible for all proactive and reactive media relations activities at the institutional level. The AVP will serve as the primary spokesperson for Stanford and as such, will be an ambassador for the university. The position will initially manage one media relations professional and have dotted line responsibility for communications professionals in the Stanford News Service related to media relations issues.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES will include:
- Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with local, regional, national and international media organizations and journalists.
- Direct crisis communications response, including issues with reputational impact and emergency matters.
- Provide strategic counsel on reputation management and other such issues to university management.
- Work with the senior director of media relations to respond to all media inquiries. Research requested information and develop responses and talking points in coordination with campus units and subject matter experts.
- Advise the school’s leadership as to the reputational risks and public relations implications of current events, school issues, other developments in higher education, and actions and/or policies contemplated by the school.
- Working with other campus units and media relations officers, manage day-to-day media inquiries.
- Work closely with the Associate Vice President for University Communications and Assistant Vice President for News and Content Production to create an editorial calendar for proactive institutional media opportunities.
- Ensure the creation and implementation of appropriate media relations policies and guidelines for the university.
- Oversee the university’s photography, film and television policies.
- Prepare experts and campus spokespersons as needed.
- Provide media relations training and best practices for campus-wide communications practitioners.
- Research and write briefing materials, as well as press releases and campus statements.
- Other duties may also be assigned.
TO BE SUCCESSFUL in this position you will bring:
- Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications or related field, and a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in a media relations role in a complex environment, or a combination of education and relevant experience.
- Depth of experience, sensitivity, and confidence befitting a strategic leadership position.
- Strong strategic and tactical thinking ability.
- Proven ability to manage large and complex issues through diverse and competing interests.
- Superior news judgement and outstanding communications skills and presence at all levels and for all audiences, nationally and internationally.
- Strong influencing, negotiating, and relationship management skills.
- Demonstrated ability to earn credibility and influence opinion leaders.
- Ability to develop and maintain close relationships with journalists, faculty and university colleagues.
- Proven written communications skills, including editing, copy editing and proof reading.
- Demonstrated ability to work in fast-paced and high-pressure environment.
- Proven management skills and experience.
- Ability to mentor communications colleagues in media relations and public relations best practices.
- Experience in working in a highly decentralized environment is desirable.
WHY STANFORD for you:
Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with:
- Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
A caring culture. We provide excellent retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
A healthier you. Climb our rock wall, swim in our Olympic-sized pool, or choose from hundreds of health and fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide highly competitive health care benefits.
Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails and museums.
Enviable resources. Enjoy free commute programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more!
Stanford is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.
How to apply:
We invite you to apply for the position by clicking on the “Apply for Job” button. To be considered, please submit a cover letter and a resume with your online application. The cover letter should briefly describe why you believe you are a good fit for this position.
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