Position Summary

Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC) is looking for a media relations specialist to pitch/place compelling stories in the media on CUIMC's basic science research, clinical enterprise, education and community initiatives.

Supporting the activities of the media team and reporting to the director of media relations, the media relations specialist handles reactive and proactive day-to-day media relations activities of the Office of Communications and Public Affairs. The media relations specialist identifies stories and pitches and places in the media via the development of pitch letters, news releases and/or web stories.

Responsibilities

The incumbent will assist in media monitoring, tracking and development of media results reports.

In addition, the media relations specialist will perform administrative and "housekeeping" tasks, including media list maintenance, coordination with monitoring and news services, and management of news clip files.

The media relations specialist must demonstrate the ability to:

Evaluate and identify potential CUIMC news, develop content, usually on CUIMC's clinical enterprise, education and community initiatives, and pitch and disseminate stories to the public via digital platforms, including media outlets, Columbia-owned websites, and social media.

Manage and respond quickly to incoming inquiries from the news media.

Assist in emergency situations that may require communications support; serve as "on call" media officer on rotating schedule.

Pay exceptional attention to accuracy and editorial detail.

Be flexible, organized, and comfortable with managing multiple projects on deadline.

Work comfortably with journalists, physicians, and in CUIMC's team environment.

Exercise discretion and exhibit good judgment.

Other duties as assigned.  

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism or related field or equivalent in education and experience, plus a minimum of three years or more of related experience, good writing skills, a strong work ethic and friendly disposition are required.  

Must have strong writing, editing, publishing and communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word), Vocus platform and Google Analytics. 

Other Requirements

Preferred Qualifications

• Type other requirements and/or special indicators if CUIMC

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.