Strategic Media Relations Manager (Hybrid)

Harvard University; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Harvard University’s Harvard College is seeking a Manager of Media Relations to lead day-to-day media activities and develop proactive strategies that advance the College’s visibility and priorities.

The role partners with College leadership and communications teams to craft compelling stories, respond to inquiries, and coordinate media engagements in a fast-paced environment. Strong writing and relationship-building skills are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Five (5) years of progressive experience in media relations, communications, public affairs, journalism, or a related field.
• Experience working independently with external media and journalists; serving as a spokesperson or media representative.
• Experience managing communications projects or campaigns within a complex organization.
• Analytical skills and experience tracking and evaluating media performance metrics.
• Excellent writing, editing, and message development skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.
• Experience working across multiple media channels and communications platforms.
• Sound judgment and responsiveness in time-sensitive situations.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams while independently driving projects forward.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Prior experience in higher education, academic, nonprofit, or other mission-driven organizations is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate day-to-day media relations activities for Harvard College.
• Develop and implement proactive media relations strategies that support institutional priorities, academic initiatives, and strategic objectives.
• Identify opportunities to generate positive media coverage and increase visibility for Harvard College programs, leadership, faculty, students, and initiatives.
• Create and execute media outreach plans that advance key messages and institutional priorities.
• Develop targeted media pitches and story placements across local, national, and international media outlets.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, editors, producers, and other media professionals.
• Serve as a primary contact for media inquiries related to Harvard College.
• Coordinate interviews, media opportunities, and background briefings.
• Facilitate media engagement activities while ensuring messaging consistency and accuracy.
• Maintain knowledge of media trends, priorities, and emerging opportunities.
• Partner with College administrators, academic leaders, and subject matter experts to identify newsworthy stories and communications opportunities.
• Advise stakeholders on media strategy, messaging, and engagement approaches.
• Prepare briefing materials, talking points, key messages, media statements, and background documents.

Skills

Media relations

Writing & editing

Project management

Relationship management

Strategic communications

Analytical skills

Time management

Job description

Harvard University’s Harvard College is seeking a Manager of Media Relations to lead day-to-day media activities and develop proactive strategies that advance the College’s visibility and priorities.

The role partners with College leadership and communications teams to craft compelling stories, respond to inquiries, and coordinate media engagements in a fast-paced environment. Strong writing and relationship-building skills are essential for success.