New

Assistant Director of Media Relations

University of Georgia

retirement plan

United States, Georgia, Athens

Apr 21, 2026

Posting Details

Posting Number	S15016P
Working Title	Assistant Director of Media Relations
Department	MarComm-Media Communications
About the University of Georgia	Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
About the College/Unit/Department
College/Unit/Department website
Posting Type	External
Retirement Plan	TRS or ORP
Employment Type	Employee
Benefits Eligibility	Benefits Eligible
Full/Part time	Full Time
Work Schedule
Additional Schedule Information	Monday-Friday 8:00-5:00, occasional nights and weekends required
Advertised Salary	$76,000-$86,000
Posting Date	04/20/2026
Open until filled	Yes
Closing Date
Proposed Starting Date	06/01/2026
Special Instructions to Applicants
Location of Vacancy	Athens Area
EEO Policy Statement	The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ( hrweb@uga.edu).
USG Core Values Statement	The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02. Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Position Information

Classification Title	Media Relations Manager
FLSA	Exempt
FTE	1.00
Minimum Qualifications	Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent plus 10 years of professional experience to include 3 years of supervisory experience
Preferred Qualifications	Five (5) or more years of related professional experience. Experience working in higher education or a complex organizational environment. Experience supporting executive or senior leadership communications. Supervisory or team leadership experience.
Position Summary	Reporting to the Senior Director for Integrated Media Communications, the Assistant Director of Media Relations provides supervision and leadership to Media Relations staff. The assistant director leads the development and execution of media strategies that promote major university initiatives and a broad range of institutional storytelling, including institutional news, research discoveries, public service efforts, and academic excellence. This role requires the ability to evaluate and elevate these activities into compelling, audience-centered narratives for broad audiences. The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional writing and editing skills, along with strong organizational and client engagement abilities. This position operates within a highly collaborative environment, working closely with marketing and communications professionals, development specialists, and senior administrators.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies	Advanced knowledge of marketing, communications, and public relations principles, with particular expertise in higher education contexts. Proven project management capabilities, including leading complex, cross-functional initiatives with multiple stakeholders and competing deadlines. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated strength in copywriting, editing, and strategic message development. Demonstrated ability to operate independently with sound judgment, discretion, and a high level of professionalism. Strong interpersonal skills with a track record of building trust and fostering effective collaboration across various functional areas. Highly organized with the ability to manage priorities, balance competing demands, and meet deadlines in fast-paced environments. Familiarity with digital communications platforms, content management systems
Physical Demands	Work in standard office environment
Is driving a responsibility of this position?	No
Is this a Position of Trust?	No
Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?	No
Does this position require a P-Card?	No
Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?	No
Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?	No
Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications)	No
Credit and P-Card policy	Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.
Background Investigation Policy	Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities

Duties/Responsibilities	Supervises the Media Relations staff and assists with duties as necessary, including news distribution, news monitoring, reporting, overseeing distribution lists and necessary trainings. Serves as a member of the media communications leadership.
Percentage of time	30

Duties/Responsibilities

Produces, writes, and edits a wide range of communications materials, including press releases, media pitches, and feature stories. Ensures all content is clear, accurate, and aligned with institutional messaging, brand standards, and AP style. Provides editorial oversight and guidance to staff, maintaining consistency and quality across all media communications. Serves as a backup to the managing editor for email newsletters, editorial calendar planning, and news site curation.

Percentage of time

Duties/Responsibilities

Coordinates and responds to requests from the news media for information and interviews, ensuring timely, accurate, and strategic communication. Contributes to issues management, crisis communications, and emergency communications as needed. Oversee Media Relations team operations in the absence of the Senior Director, providing leadership and continuity of service while serving as spokesperson as needed.

Percentage of time

Duties/Responsibilities	Collaborates with campus partners, including academic units, research offices, and administrative leadership, to identify, develop, and elevate newsworthy stories. Provides consultation and guidance on messaging, media strategy, and best practices for external communications.
Percentage of time	15

Duties/Responsibilities	Other duties as assigned.
Percentage of time	10