Senior Media Relations Strategist

University of California Office of the President; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 132,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

UC Office of the President is seeking a dynamic Senior Media Relations Officer to lead proactive media outreach, craft strategic communications plans, and manage high-visibility editorial content for systemwide leadership. This role partners with ER&C and campus media teams to shape national, state, and local coverage.

The candidate will develop pitches, respond to inquiries, and prepare senior leaders for media opportunities while sustaining strong journalist relationships and overseeing press

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in deadline-driven journalism or communications role (media relations, public affairs, crisis communications, etc.).
• Advanced ability to write clear, engaging copy for senior leaders and complex organizations with minimal edits.
• Extensive experience with message strategy creation and implementation and relationships with reporters.

Responsibilities

• Identify high-impact university stories and develop effective pitches with UCOP and other UC locations.
• Write and edit press releases, fact sheets, and materials for pitching stories and campaigns.
• Secure positive story placements and coordinate multimedia assets for media outreach.
• Prepare senior leaders and spokespeople for media opportunities and manage inquiries.
• Ensure messaging is coordinated with ER&C and UC campuses and track media coverage for leadership.

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public policy, or similar relevant field

Job description

UC Office of the President is seeking a dynamic Senior Media Relations Officer to lead proactive media outreach, craft strategic communications plans, and manage high-visibility editorial content for systemwide leadership. This role partners with ER&C and campus media teams to shape national, state, and local coverage.

The candidate will develop pitches, respond to inquiries, and prepare senior leaders for media opportunities while sustaining strong journalist relationships and overseeing press