University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Position Number: 998050 Functional Title: Director, Media Relations Position Type: Administration - Staff Position Eclass: EP - EHRA 12 mo leave earning University Information: Located in North Carolina's third largest city, UNC Greensboro is among the most diverse, learner-centered public research universities in the state, with 18,000 students in eight colleges and schools pursuing more than 150 areas of undergraduate and over 200 areas of graduate study. UNCG continues to be recognized nationally for academic excellence, access, and affordability. UNCG is ranked No. 1 most affordable institution in North Carolina for net cost by the N.Y. Times and No. 1 in North Carolina for social mobility by The Wall Street Journal - helping first-generation and lower-income students find paths to prosperity. Designated an Innovation and Economic Prosperity University by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities, UNCG is a community-engaged research institution with a portfolio of more than $67M in research and creative activity. The University's 2,600 staff help create an annual economic impact for the Piedmont Triad region in excess of $1B. Primary Purpose of the Organizational Unit: University Communications (UC) has the primary responsibility for elevating the public profile of UNCG through communications and marketing strategies. This group of communications professionals uses a mix of channels to reach audiences that include digital, social, and print media. Reporting to the Office of the Chancellor, UC's mission is to provide external communications through print and digital media to increase public awareness and support of the University. UC's expertise includes communications/media, creative services, web communications, and marketing. Each area has a unique set of responsibilities and duties, staff collaborates to promote and elevate UNCG's brand and image. Position Summary: The director of media relations at UNC Greensboro serves as the University's primary liaison to local, regional, and national media. This strategic role is responsible for promoting UNCG's academic excellence, research impact, student success and economic mobility, community engagement, and milestones by developing and executing proactive media relations strategies. The director also manages issues communications and supports the University's reputation during crises or sensitive situations. In addition, the director acts as a primary University spokesperson and manages the work of a media relations specialist. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, English, or a related field At least seven years of progressively responsible experience in media relations or journalism, preferably in higher education, government, an agency, or a large nonprofit A strong understanding of the news cycle and newsroom roles Familiarity with leading podcasters and influencers, with an understanding of brand-building tactics Demonstrated success in placing stories in high-profile outlets (regionally and nationally) and navigating complex media environments Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills Experience writing and editing using Associated Press Stylebook guidelines Exceptional management and mentoring abilities Strong news judgment and crisis communication experience Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree in communications or related discipline Familiarity with North Carolina media markets and the UNC System Experience working with faculty or subject-matter experts Proficiency in media monitoring tools, CRM platforms, and CMS systems Spanish language proficiency is a plus Recruitment Range: Commensurate with experience Org : University Communications - 33901 Job Open Date: 09/03/2025 Job Close Date: 10/01/2025 Open Until Filled: No FTE: 1.000 Type of Appointment: Permanent Number of Months per Year: 12 FLSA: Exempt Percentage Of Time: 40 Key Responsibility: Media Strategy and Outreach Essential Tasks: Develop and implement a comprehensive media relations strategy aligned with institutional priorities. Build and maintain relationships with journalists, podcasters, and influencers across print, digital, and broadcast platforms. Proactively pitch stories that elevate the visibility of UNCG's programs, research, faculty, and students. Monitor media trends, respond to breaking news, and identify opportunities for strategic positioning of UNCG leaders and initiatives. Percentage Of Time: 25 Key Responsibility: News Development and Distribution Essential Tasks: Identify and craft compelling news stories and news releases that reflect the University's strategic goals. Serve as the lead editor and coordinator for news announcements, media advisories, and expert commentary. Manage a dynamic media relations calendar that aligns with academic, research, and public engagement milestones. Collaborate with department staff to plan promotional photography, video, and multimedia project's. Percentage Of Time: 15 Key Responsibility: Crisis and Issues Communication Essential Tasks: Support crisis communication efforts by drafting media statements, FAQs, talking points, and key messages. Coordinate news conferences and special events as needed. Serve as a member of the incident communications response team, including after-hours availability when needed. Maintain the University crisis communications plan. Advise University leadership on communications risks and media response strategies. Percentage Of Time: 10 Key Responsibility: Media Training and Faculty Engagement Essential Tasks: Coordinate and conduct media training sessions for faculty and staff Cultivate, help maintain, and promote a network of faculty experts prepared to speak with the media on timely topics Collaborate with deans and department chairs to identify faculty for media opportunities Guide faculty and senior leaders in writing op-ed pieces aligned with their expertise Percentage Of Time: 10 Key Responsibility: Metrics, Monitoring, and Evaluation Essential Tasks: Track media coverage, analyze performance metrics, and generate regular reports on media reach and sentiment in partnership with the data analyst. Oversee media monitoring services and maintain the University's media database and news content. Oversee the dissemination of daily media highlights email. Physical Effort: Hand Movement-Repetitive Motions - F, Finger Dexterity - C, Vision-Skilled Trades - C, Reading - F, Writing - F, Hearing - C, Talking - F, Standing - F, Sitting - F, Walking - O, Lifting-30-60 lbs. - R Work Environment: Driving - Car/Truck - F, Location - Trees - R, Night/Dark - R, Extreme noise levels - R, Extreme temperatures - R, Inside - C, Outside - O