Director, Media Relations — Hybrid Leadership

William & Mary; Williamsburg (VA); Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

William & Mary seeks a Director of Media Relations to lead regional and local media engagement, advise senior leadership, and coordinate university-wide promotional efforts. The role requires pitching faculty experts to news outlets and managing media access during events and crises.

Based in Williamsburg with hybrid work flexibility, the position reports to the Executive Director of Media Relations and demands a strategic thinker who can write clearly, manage multiple stakeholders, and protect

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications or related field or equivalent.
• 7–10 years of progressively responsible experience in media relations, strategic communications, issue management or related work.
• Excellent written and oral communication; knowledge of AP style; able to write and edit quickly.
• Experience serving as a media spokesperson for a complex organization.

Responsibilities

• Lead regional and local media engagement for the university, working with leadership and safety offices.
• Direct and manage media response and pitches; coordinate media placements.
• Write and build media plans for major university announcements or events.
• Monitor media coverage; identify themes, opportunities and risks; inform strategy.
• Serve as university spokesperson for emergencies and after-hours needs.

Skills

Media relations

Strategic communications

Public speaking

Oral & written communication

Crisis communications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications or related field

Tools

Critical Mention

Meltwater

Microsoft Office

Job description

William & Mary seeks a Director of Media Relations to lead regional and local media engagement, advise senior leadership, and coordinate university-wide promotional efforts. The role requires pitching faculty experts to news outlets and managing media access during events and crises.

Based in Williamsburg with hybrid work flexibility, the position reports to the Executive Director of Media Relations and demands a strategic thinker who can write clearly, manage multiple stakeholders, and protect