📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Senior Director of Public Relations and Media Strategy
🔹 Company: Penn State University
🔹 Location: Penn State University Park
🔹 Job Type: Hybrid
🔹 Category: Public Relations & Communications
🔹 Date Posted: April 8, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 10+ years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site with remote flexibility
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing and implementing proactive media strategies to enhance Penn State's reputation
- Driving high-profile media placements in influential outlets and protecting the brand through issues monitoring and response
- Providing counsel on media relations to the University President, senior administration, and communications leaders
- Leading a high-performing team responsible for developing storytelling opportunities, managing strategic projects, and advising on media monitoring and reporting practices
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with media outlets and influencers.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Develop and execute proactive top-tier media strategies, from planning to pitch development to media placements
✅ Drive in-depth relationships with national, regional, and local media, as well as high-profile online influencers, to generate coverage enhancing the University’s appeal and prestige
✅ Identify current trends and topical issues that could potentially elevate the reputation of the University through visible engagement
✅ Help position Penn State and its faculty as thought leaders in their respective fields
✅ Highlight the University’s commitment to research, working with the assistant director of research communications to bring science to the forefront and creatively plan how to disseminate key research and commercialization efforts taking place at the University
✅ Partner with colleagues throughout the University to identify storytelling opportunities and provide counsel on developing and delivering multimedia materials and targeted media outreach strategies
✅ Oversee media monitoring procedures and technologies and help prepare reports for senior leadership
✅ Monitor performance metrics, track progress against targets, and adjust strategies to maximize impact
✅ Work closely with and support Strategic Communications’ crisis and issues team by developing reports and evaluating priority issues that may impact the University
✅ Develop comprehensive reports merchandizing results for senior leadership and the University’s Board of Trustees
✅ Supervise staff focusing on proactive top-tier media opportunities, expert positioning, and results monitoring
ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong leadership, project management, and strategic planning skills to drive results and meet objectives.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a similar discipline
Experience: 10+ years of related experience, including 3+ years of supervisory experience
Required Skills:
- Excellent writing and editing skills
- Proven ability to develop and maintain key media contacts
- Expert-level understanding of new and traditional media
- Ability to build and execute crisis communications plans
- Understanding of issues management and a proactive approach to activities
Preferred Skills:
- Experience managing strategic projects
- Collaborative team player and inclusive leadership style
- Authentic, self-motivated leader with a confident style
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with a strong background in public relations, media strategy, and team leadership are encouraged to apply.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $109,300 - $164,000 per year
Benefits:
- Competitive benefits package
- Retirement savings plan
- Tuition assistance
- Employee discounts
Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is based on the University's salary structure and may vary depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Higher Education, specifically focused on research and public relations
Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees)
Founded: 1855, with the Applied Research Laboratory established in 1945
Company Description:
- Penn State University is a leading research university with a strong commitment to advancing knowledge, engaging students, and serving the communities of Pennsylvania and beyond
- The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State is a designated University Affiliated Research Center (UARC) that supports national security, economic competitiveness, and quality of life through education, scientific discovery, technology demonstration, and transition to application
- ARL-Penn State conducts essential research, development, and systems engineering in support of the nation's priorities, free from conflict of interest or competition with commercial industry
Company Specialties:
- Research Engineering
- University Collaboration
- Communications Information and Navigation
- Fluid Dynamics and Acoustics
- Materials and Manufacturing
- Undersea Systems
Company Website: arl.psu.edu
ASSUMPTION: Penn State University and the Applied Research Laboratory offer a dynamic and challenging work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Senior-level management position
Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Executive Director of Media and External Engagement
Work Arrangement: Hybrid, with a combination of on-campus and remote work
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to advance to a more senior leadership role within the University's communications division
- Opportunities to collaborate with and learn from other communications professionals across the University
- Chance to work on high-profile projects and initiatives that impact the University's reputation and success
ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of public relations, media strategy, and higher education, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: University campus with a mix of on-site and remote work
Office Location(s): Penn State University Park, with additional offices in various locations across the United States
Geographic Context:
- The University Park campus is located in the central Pennsylvania region, offering a mix of urban and rural environments
- The area is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions
- The University is a major employer in the region, with a significant economic impact
Work Schedule: Full-time, with flexible remote work arrangements
ASSUMPTION: The University Park campus offers a vibrant and dynamic work environment, with access to a wide range of amenities and resources.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Initial phone or video screen with the hiring manager
- On-campus or virtual interview with the hiring manager and other key stakeholders
- Final interview with the Executive Director of Media and External Engagement
- Background check and reference check
Key Assessment Areas:
- Media relations and strategy expertise
- Leadership and team management skills
- Crisis communications and issues management experience
- Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills
- Be prepared to discuss your approach to media relations, crisis communications, and strategic planning
- Demonstrate your understanding of the University's mission and values
- Showcase your ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment
ATS Keywords: Public Relations, Media Strategy, Crisis Communications, Issues Management, Team Leadership, Higher Education, University Communications
ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role may take several weeks, with multiple rounds of interviews and assessments.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Media monitoring and analysis tools (e.g., Mention, Brand24, etc.)
- Content management systems (e.g., WordPress, Drupal, etc.)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, etc.)
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Google Workspace
ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with relevant media monitoring, content management, and project management tools is essential for success in this role.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Integrity
- Excellence
- Accountability
- Respect
- Diversity
- Innovation
Work Style:
- Collaborative and inclusive
- Data-driven and strategic
- Adaptable and responsive to change
- Committed to continuous learning and improvement
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you align with Penn State's commitment to integrity and excellence in your professional and personal life?
- How do you approach working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including faculty, staff, and students?
- How do you ensure that your work style is adaptable and responsive to change, particularly in a hybrid work environment?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates who demonstrate a strong fit with Penn State's values and work style are more likely to be successful in this role.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing competing priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment
- Balancing on-site and remote work responsibilities effectively
- Navigating a large, complex organization with multiple stakeholders
- Adapting to changes in the media landscape and University priorities
ASSUMPTION: These challenges can be mitigated through strong project management, communication, and adaptability skills.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Compared to similar roles in corporate communications, this position offers the opportunity to work in a mission-driven environment with a focus on public service and education
- Unlike roles in government or non-profit communications, this position offers the chance to work in a large, research-focused university with significant resources and influence
- Career path comparison: This role can serve as a stepping stone to more senior leadership positions within the University's communications division or other higher education institutions
ASSUMPTION: Understanding the unique aspects of higher education communications is crucial for success in this role.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and executing a comprehensive media strategy to launch a new University-wide initiative
- Managing a crisis communications response to a high-profile issue affecting the University's reputation
- Collaborating with faculty members to position them as thought leaders in their respective fields and secure media placements
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the diverse and challenging nature of the work required in this role.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the most pressing challenges facing the University's communications division, and how can this role help address them?
- How does this role fit into the broader strategic goals of the University and the Applied Research Laboratory?
- What opportunities are there for professional growth and development within the University's communications division?
- How does the University support work-life balance for employees, particularly in a hybrid work arrangement?
- What are the key priorities for the first 90 days in this role, and how can I best prepare to address them?
ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful, insightful questions demonstrates your interest in and understanding of the role and the University.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills, particularly in public relations, media strategy, and crisis communications
- Prepare for your interview by researching the University's mission, values, and recent news, as well as the specific requirements of the role
- Be ready to discuss your approach to media relations, strategic planning, and team leadership
- Follow up with the hiring manager one week after your interview to express your continued interest in the position
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
