Media Relations Associate, UVA Communications

The University of Virginia’s Office of University Communications seeks a Media Relations Associate to support its media relations efforts by cultivating relationships and engagement with media outlets and journalists who cover topics relevant to UVA's faculty research and expertise. The range of responsibilities reflects this role’s extensive opportunities for professional development, including a mix of strategic and tactical work areas. This role is focused on promoting UVA's strategic research initiatives and expertise, as described in the Great and Good Plan, through a variety of evolving communication channels, including a weekly media email newsletter, direct media outreach, experimentation with video assets, and other strategies this role will identify. Additionally, the associate will be responsible for designing media events, summits, and interviews involving UVA experts, including the development of a virtual press briefing model. Experience in journalism is valuable but not necessary.

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct proactive outreach to media outlets and journalists to promote UVA faculty research and expertise.Manage and refine a weekly media email advisory highlighting notable research, experts, and timely topics at UVA.Assist in preparing and disseminating media advisories, and other communications materials.Monitor media coverage and maintain media contact databases.Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify newsworthy stories and media opportunities.Design and execute media events, summits, and expert interactions that enhance UVA's visibility through research and experts that are relevant to UVA stakeholders and the public welfare.Develop a virtual press briefing model to facilitate media interactions remotely.Support the Office of University Communications in handling media inquiries and interview requests.Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

Education: Bachelor's degree.Experience: At least one year of experience in media relations, journalism, public relations or similar field required. Two or more years strongly preferred.Licensure: None required.

Anticipated Salary Range: $60,000 to $72,000 per year, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

This is an Exempt level, benefited position. This position will not sponsor for work visas. The University performs background checks on all new hires prior to employment. For information about the recruitment process, please contact Daniel Strong, Senior Recruiter at das6zb@virginia.edu.

Please apply through the University job board, Careers at UVA, and search for R0064102.  

Internal applicants must apply through their UVA Workday profile by searching ‘Find Jobs’ or through their ‘Jobs Hub’. Applicants must complete an application online with the following documents: a resume and cover letter.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Bachelor's Degree in English or Communications
Experience: One year of experience
Licensure: None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff.  We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences.  We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, and family medical or genetic information.