Strategic Communications & Media Relations Lead

Doane University; Crete (NE); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Doane University in Crete, Nebraska, seeks an Associate Director of Communications and Media Relations to serve as a lead writer and editorial resource, shaping high‑quality content across audiences and platforms while safeguarding the University’s voice.

The role directs the marketing team and freelancers, manages news and public relations, coordinates event publicity and media coverage, and supervises a copywriter and a digital/social media specialist, reporting to the Director of Marketing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field.
• Minimum four years of progressively responsible experience in communications or media relations.
• Experience in crisis communications and managing sensitive media issues.
• Proven ability to supervise staff and manage multiple projects.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling across formats and audiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead writer and editorial resource for the University’s communications.
• Oversee news and public relations activities, including internal newsletters.
• Coordinate media events and general event publicity coverage.
• Supervise copywriter and digital/social media specialist; report to Director of Marketing.
• Ensure content is accurate, on-brand, and aligned with university priorities.

Skills

Lead writer

Editorial direction

Crisis communications

Staff supervision

Media relations

Storytelling

AP style writing

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications/public relations/journalism

Tools

Content coordination tools

Newsroom processes

Job description

Doane University in Crete, Nebraska, seeks an Associate Director of Communications and Media Relations to serve as a lead writer and editorial resource, shaping high‑quality content across audiences and platforms while safeguarding the University’s voice.

The role directs the marketing team and freelancers, manages news and public relations, coordinates event publicity and media coverage, and supervises a copywriter and a digital/social media specialist, reporting to the Director of Marketing.