Media Strategist

Summary: 

The Media Strategist assists in the development and implementation of communications strategies and public relations campaigns that both shape public discourse and elevate the organization’s programmatic work, with an emphasis on Voting Rights, Economic Justice and Criminal Justice Reform. The Media Strategist will be responsible for a wide array of communications activities that further amplify the organization’s advocacy, legal and policy work regionally and nationally.

Primary Job Function:

• Overseeing litigation, legislation and public policy communications and media relations as determined by the Associate Director of Political Communications;
• Developing and implementing comprehensive media strategies, with input and guidance from the Deputy Director of Media, legal, policy and program teams that build public support;
• Tracking breaking news related to litigation, legislation and public policy and working with the Deputy Director of Media and Associate Director of Political Communications, legal, policy and program teams on rapid response communications tactics;
• Collaborating with team members in creative, digital, website, editorial, marketing, development, legal and programs to execute comprehensive public education campaigns and communications strategies, with input and guidance from the Associate Director of Political Communications;
• Obtaining media coverage through story, Op-ed, letter to the editor (LTE) pitches that help shape public discourse and elevate the organization’s work;
• Pitching and booking SPLC experts for interviews with newspapers, online media, radio, podcasts and TV to elevate SPLC’s work and take advantage of opportunities in the news cycle;
• Fielding media requests on a daily basis;
• Writing and editing content, including (but not limited to): press releases and advisories, talking points, Op-eds, letters to the editor, fact sheets, formal correspondence, and other materials;
• Developing and distributing press materials;
• Compiling daily clips of relevant local, state, regional and national news;
• Building and cultivating relationships with key reporters, editorial writers, columnists, producers, and news and talk show hosts;
• Assisting the Deputy Director of Media with message development for SPLC’s issues and activities;
• Managing, expanding and maintaining database of media contacts;
• Monitoring, analyzing and reporting results and outcomes of department’s efforts; and
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications -

Education and Related Work Experience:

• A minimum of 3 years media relations, public relations or communications strategist work experience, with an emphasis in either advocacy or non-profit communications;
• Experience working with regional and national news media and online outlets; and
• High school diploma or GED.

Knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Strong interest in and passion for social and racial justice and civil rights;
• Exceptional communications skills, including clear, concise writing and ability to frame complex issues for the media, supporters and public;
• Team player with entrepreneurial spirit and ability to collaborate effectively with staff members at all levels in fast-paced environment;
• Able to prepare reports and dynamic presentations;
• Must take direction well but be self-motivated with ability to work independently;
• Ability to work under deadline pressure;
• Must be highly organized and possess the ability to prioritize work;
• Must be familiar with advocacy and/or political efforts;
• Commitment to ideals of justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion; and
• Commitment to fostering an anti-racist workplace culture and to anti-racist principles and learning.

Work Designation:

This role has the following work designation options: 

• Distant Remote: Will work remotely and are not expected to work in the states in which the SPLC has an office or in an SPLC office. They may be required to attend occasional meetings or activities in the states in which the SPLC has an office or elsewhere.
• Local Remote:  Will work remotely but is expected to attend work-related activities that occur at the SPLC offices or in the states in which the SPLC operates.
• Telework:  Will work at an SPLC office at least three days per week and may work two days per week from an alternative work location.

Compensation:  

This is a non-exempt role and the minimum starting salary is $52,621 annually ($25.30/hr). Salary will be commensurate with experience. 

 Other Special Considerations:

This job is performed under general office conditions and is not subject to any strenuous physical demands or dangerous conditions.

This position is represented by the Washington-Baltimore Guild.

 Disclaimer:

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the employee in this position. These statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of a person in this position.

An Equal-Opportunity Employer with a Commitment to Diversity 

Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and as an organization committed to diversity and the perspective of all voices, we consider applicants equally without regard to age, caregiver status, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, marital status, national origin, on the basis of genetic information, political affiliation, pregnancy, or veteran status.