MEDIA RELATIONS REPRESENTATIVE

California Institute of the Arts,
15 October 2002, USA

CalArts is seeking a Media Relations Representative to join its public affairs team This new position will report to the Director of Communications and will assist in the pitching and positioning of stories and will fulfill media requests, maintain the media database, coordinate media events such as press conferences and tours, and coordinate photographic and video requests from the design shop. RESPONSIBILITIES (include, but are not limited to) * Under the supervision of the Director of Communications assists in identifying, pitching and placing news and feature articles that advance the mission and objectives of the Institute in national, regional and local print, broadcast and online media outlets. * Under the supervision of the Director of Communications, researches and places timely, accurate media releases for over 550 CalArts and REDCAT events. * Researches and compiles information requested by members of the media or Communications Director. * Builds and maintains media contact databases. * Maintains an archive of media materials. * Coordinates the production of Newsmakers, the Institute's quarterly compendium of relevant published articles. * Works with web site team to keep postings of events and media releases current. * Creates and distributes media kits. * Distributes media releases. * Coordinates with communications staff and Institute faculty and staff to fulfill media requests for information, photos, interviews, etc. in a professional, timely manner. * Answers phones and field requests from outside media and Institute constituencies. REQUIREMENTS * Demonstrated track record of successful national, regional and local media relations planning, implementation and placement. * Demonstrated experience in working with general news media as well as discipline-specific trade publications and outlets. * Ability to identify stories and angles that exemplify the Institute's strategic goals. * Demonstrated ability to work effectively with news and arts media. * Demonstrated ability to respond effectively to changing priorities. * Solid professional judgment. * Strong MS Word, MS Excel, MS Access skills. * Basic HTML preferred. * BA in Journalism, Communications or related degree preferred.