Media Relations Specialist, Public and Media Relations

Position Summary
The Media Relations Specialist is responsible for advancing Loyola Marymount University’s visibility and reputation by supporting a proactive media strategy that secures positive coverage and strengthens relationships with journalists and media outlets. Acting as a primary contact and thought partner with external media and journalists, this role develops and leads earned media campaigns with guidance and oversight from LMU’s Senior Media Relations Lead, supports media engagement efforts across the university, and contributes to communications materials and efforts with an eye toward earned media success.

As Media Relations Specialist, this position is responsible for developing and maintaining positive relations with priority local, trade, and national media contacts; developing strategy and tactics in support of executive visibility and faculty thought leadership campaigns; planning and management of events, conferences, and awards opportunities, along with supporting media relations components; and serving as an integrator and earned media subject matter expert within LMU. This position requires strong writing and editing skills, as well as an understanding of and keen interest in developing media strategies within an evolving media landscape.

A strategic partner and collaborator, the Media Relations Specialist is a key contributor in shaping the university’s communications and public relations strategies and campaigns to promote a positive institutional image, increase visibility and exposure, reinforce brand narratives, and increase engagement.

Reporting to the Senior Lead, Media Relations & Outreach, the Media Relations Specialist will be a critical asset to the Marketing, Communications, and External Relations team, providing communications support and counsel, interfacing with media and university leaders, and contributing to the overall visibility of the university through effective communications and public relations that reach internal and external university audiences.

 Position Specific Responsibilities/Accountabilities

• Support LMU’s media relations efforts by developing and executing external communications strategies that enhance visibility, foster media relationships, and drive positive coverage.
• Help identify opportunities to showcase the university’s strengths and achievements in alignment with the goals of its colleges, schools, and research centers.
• Serve as a thought partner and collaborator with the Public & Media Relations team, contributing to strategic outreach, campaigns, and earned-media initiatives.
• Write and edit press releases, messaging, public statements, bylined articles, media pitches, and other externally focused communications.
• Act as a point of contact for external and media stakeholders, including journalists, media partners, vendors, and the university’s student newspaper.
• Cultivate relationships with key LMU executives, faculty, and MarComm colleagues to support integrated communications, story development, and visibility opportunities through events, conferences, and awards.
• Manage editorial schedules, production calendars, media collateral, and other organizational materials for the Public & Media Relations team.
• Proactively engage with journalists, influencers, and stakeholders to build relationships and secure earned media coverage.
• Oversee media monitoring and reporting by tracking press coverage, media contacts, and campaign success metrics; develop regular and annual summaries, reports, and recaps of key efforts.
• Support issues and crisis communications planning and response as needed.
• Ensure high-quality, error-free work while supporting the team and leadership in delivering materials accurately and on time.
• Contribute to the team’s goals of increasing proactive media engagement, executive visibility, and brand awareness through coordinated strategies and cross-team collaboration.
• Commit to continuous professional development and performance improvement.
• Stay current on trends, tools, and best practices in media and communications.

• Perform other duties as assigned or requested by leadership.

Loyola Marymount University Expectations

Exhibit behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the university. Communicate and model high standards of professional, responsible, and ethical conduct. Demonstrate a commitment to outstanding customer service, while advancing the university’s mission of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity.

The incumbent must be capable of supervising creative, communications, and technical teams, as well as managing complex projects involving dependencies, deadlines, budgets, and external resources. They should effectively apply marketing and communicat